Level 3 Extended Diploma Health & Social Care

Introduction

The BTEC Level 3 Health and Social Care Extended Diploma is a rigorous two year programme designed for post-16 learners aged up to 19 who are committed to pursuing a future in the health or social care sectors. This comprehensive course offers the academic foundation, practical experience, and personal development needed to progress to university or into entry-level employment in a range of care-related fields.

Learning is delivered through a blend of classroom-based teaching, structured independent study, and mandatory work placements, helping students build the discipline and independence required for higher-level study. Over the course of two years, learners will complete 13 modules, including core topics and study skills, all of which must be successfully achieved to be awarded the full Extended Diploma. There is no reduced or partial qualification option.

Each student is supported by a dedicated personal tutor, who provides regular coaching sessions to monitor progress and encourage personal growth. In addition, all learners will follow a Future Skills curriculum, focused on enhancing personal development, employability, and global citizenship - ensuring you’re equipped for the demands of both higher education and the modern workplace. 

As work placement is a compulsory element, students must be ready to engage in real-world health and social care settings, gaining invaluable experience through shadowing and supervised practice.

Course Overview

Level 3 Extended Diploma Health & Social Care

Entry requirements

5 GCSE's at grade 4 or above including English and Maths (science is desirable).

Effective communication skills and use of initiative are required to complete the work placements. 

DBS Required

YES

Course length

A 2-year full time course commencing September 2024 and ending June 2026.

Exact dates: 9th September 2024 - 26th June 2026

Work experience

Work placement in a local health or social care setting is a mandatory component of this qualification, setting include the community adult social care settings in Year 1 and work shadowing with Health and Community Services government departments such as the hospital in Year 2.

Applicants will need to complete an enhanced DBS check and join the update service to ensure their suitability for placement. 

Level 3 Extended Diploma Health & Social Care

Entry requirements

5 GCSE's at grade 4 or above including English and Maths (science is desirable).

Effective communication skills and use of initiative are required to complete the work placements. 

DBS Required

YES

Course length

A 2-year full time course commencing September 2025 and ending June 2027.

Exact dates: 8th September 2025 - 25th June 2027

Work experience

Work placement in a local health or social care setting is a mandatory component of this qualification, setting include the community adult social care settings in Year 1 and work shadowing with Health and Community Services government departments such as the hospital in Year 2.

Applicants will need to complete an enhanced DBS check and join the update service to ensure their suitability for placement. 

Level 3 Extended Diploma Health & Social Care

Entry requirements

5 GCSE's at grade 4 or above including English and Maths (science is desirable).

Effective communication skills and use of initiative are required to complete the work placements. 

DBS Required

YES

Course length

A 2-year full time course commencing September 2026 and ending June 2028.

Exact dates: 7th September 2026 - 23rd June 2028

Work experience

Work placement in a local health or social care setting is a mandatory component of this qualification, setting include the community adult social care settings in Year 1 and work shadowing with Health and Community Services government departments such as the hospital in Year 2.

Applicants will need to complete an enhanced DBS check and join the update service to ensure their suitability for placement. 

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