About this course
This course is ideal for students who are interested in developing their understanding of health, wellbeing and the care of individuals across different stages of life. It is suited to learners who want to explore how health and social care services support people and are considering careers within healthcare, social care or related professions.
Students will study a wide range of topics, from human development and anatomy to healthcare practices, safeguarding, public health and the factors that influence a person’s physical, emotional and social wellbeing. The course provides a balance of academic study and practical application, helping learners understand the realities of working within health and social care settings.
Students who enjoy working with people, problem-solving, research and developing communication skills will particularly benefit from this qualification. The course supports progression into university, apprenticeships and employment by developing the knowledge, skills and professional values required within the sector.
For Diploma students, practical experience through work placement provides an opportunity to apply learning in real health and social care environments, helping learners develop confidence and an understanding of professional expectations.
What will you learn?
Students will develop knowledge and skills across a range of health and social care topics, gaining an understanding of how professionals support individuals and communities.
Topics include:
Human Lifespan Development
Understanding physical, intellectual, emotional and social development across different life stages
Exploring factors that influence health and wellbeing
Understanding how professionals support development and care needs
Human Biology and Health
Exploring the structure and function of the human body
Understanding body systems and how they work together
Investigating health conditions and their impact on individuals
Health and Social Care Practice
Understanding values, principles and legislation within care settings
Exploring professional roles and responsibilities
Developing knowledge of person-centred care
Working in Health and Social Care
Understanding different professions and care pathways
Developing professional communication skills
Exploring the importance of teamwork and collaboration
Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs
Understanding how care is personalised to individuals
Exploring equality, diversity and inclusion within care services
Physiological Disorders
Investigating health conditions and their effects on individuals
Exploring diagnosis, treatment and support strategies
Promoting Public Health
Understanding public health campaigns and strategies
Exploring how health education can improve communities
Anatomy and Physiology
Developing knowledge of body systems and their functions
Applying scientific understanding to health-related contexts
Health Psychology
Exploring factors that influence behaviour, health and wellbeing
Health Science and Research
Investigating current research within health and social care
Developing scientific investigation skills
Safe Practice in Health and Social Care
Understanding safeguarding, regulations and safe working environments
Work Experience in Health and Social Care (Diploma)
Applying knowledge and skills through practical placement experience
Students may also study optional topics such as:
Health, Social Policy and Wellbeing
Promoting Health Education
Safe Environments in Health and Social Care
Nutritional Health
Complementary Therapies
Students will also develop an understanding of professional values, ethical practice, communication and the importance of supporting individuals with dignity and respect.
Who is this course aimed at?
This course is aimed at students who are interested in careers where they can support and improve the lives of others. It is suitable for learners who enjoy understanding people, health and wellbeing, and want to develop the knowledge and skills needed for future careers within the care sector.
Students who enjoy communication, teamwork, research and practical learning will benefit from this course. It is ideal for learners who want to develop confidence in working with people and understand the challenges and responsibilities involved in health and social care professions.
The qualification is particularly suited to students who wish to progress into higher education courses or careers within healthcare, including nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, social work and other allied health professions.
Students studying the Diploma pathway will benefit from work placement experience, allowing them to develop professional behaviours, apply classroom learning and gain insight into potential career pathways.
Students should have achieved 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths. The Extended Certificate is best suited to students studying alongside other Level 3 qualifications, while the Diploma provides a broader programme of study. This course is ideal for students with a strong interest in health, social care and supporting the wellbeing of others.
Assessment takes place through a combination of coursework, examinations and practical work-based learning activities. Students complete written assignments, externally assessed examinations, research tasks and practical assessments. Diploma students also complete a work placement, providing valuable experience of health and social care environments and the opportunity to develop professional skills.
Students will develop skills in:
Communication and Professional Skills
Effective communication
Teamwork and collaboration
Empathy and active listening
Professional values and ethical practice
Working with diverse groups of people
Research and Academic Skills
Research and investigation
Analysis and evaluation
Literacy and written communication
Understanding health-related information
Developing evidence-based responses
Practical and Workplace Skills
Applying care principles in practical settings
Supporting individuals’ needs
Problem-solving in care situations
Understanding workplace expectations
Professional conduct
Personal Development Skills
Confidence
Resilience
Time management
Meeting deadlines
Independent learning
Adaptability
Progression routes
Possible progression routes include careers in:
Nursing
Midwifery
Allied Health Professions
Social Work
Occupational Therapy
Paramedic Science
Healthcare Support
Public Health
Community Care
Career opportunities may include:
Adult Nurse
Child Nurse
Mental Health Nurse
Midwife
Paramedic
Diagnostic Radiographer
Occupational Therapist
Social Worker
Speech and Language Therapist
Healthcare Assistant
Degree Routes
Students may progress to higher education courses including:
Nursing
Midwifery
Physiotherapy
Occupational Therapy
Social Work
Health and Social Care
Allied Health Professions
Apprenticeships
Students may also progress into health and social care apprenticeships, including healthcare, nursing and support worker pathways.
This course supports progression into university, apprenticeships and employment by providing students with the academic knowledge, practical experience and transferable skills valued across the health and social care sector.
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