Level 3 Certificate in Health and Social Care

Course Code

Level 3 Certificate in Health and Social Care

Course Type

Course Duration

1 year

Location

Start Date

8 September, 2025
Students reading to each other

This Level 3 Certificate in Health and Social Care provides an in-depth understanding of the health and social care sector and equips learners with essential knowledge and some practical skills needed to work effectively in various health and social care settings.

It covers a broad range of topics, preparing individuals to support people with diverse needs across their lifespan. You’ll learn about different people’s needs, how to support them, and important things like communication, safety, and your role as a care worker.

This course is for:

  • Individuals wanting to work in the health and social care sector: This includes those looking for entry-level positions or career changes.
  • Existing care workers: Who want to gain a formal qualification to enhance their skills and career prospects.
  • Those seeking a deeper understanding of health and social care principles and practices: For personal or professional development.
  • People looking to progress to further education in health and social care: Such as diplomas or higher education qualifications.
  • Students who are aged 19 and over.

As a Health & Social Care student, you’ll study at our Midland Metropolitan Learning Campus, located alongside Midland Metropolitan University Hospital. With access to industry-standard facilities, including a simulation ward and specialist training environments that mirror real clinical settings, you’ll gain hands-on experience, develop professional skills, and prepare for university or a rewarding career in the health and social care sector.

  • Learners will need a Level 2 in English and a Level 1 in Maths.
  • Live in the (WMCA) West Midlands Combined Authority postcode area.
  • Not have an existing Level 3 full qualification.
  • Be able to complete a work placement (at least 75 hours worked.)

Modules

Nine Mandatory Units:

1. Equality, diversity & rights: Fair treatment, respecting differences and rights.

2. Human growth & development: How people change across life stages.

3. Safeguarding: Protecting from harm and abuse.

4. Communication: Talking and listening effectively.

5. Infection prevention & control: Keeping things clean to prevent illness.

6. Psychological perspectives: Understanding how people think and feel.

7. Sociological perspectives: How society affects health and care.

8. Working in health & social care: Your role and being a professional.

9. Reflective practice: Learning from your work to improve.

One Extended Unit that is set and marked by NCFE (Awarding Body.)

1. Subject to be confirmed

Facilities:

  • Specialist classrooms equipped for health education
  • Virtual Reality Learning environment.
  • Access to computer suites with relevant software
  • Library resources with up-to-date materials
  • Dedicated study areas for independent learning
  • On-site support services including career advice and counselling

Awarding body:

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group is a UK-based Awarding Organisation (AO) and Access Validating Agency (AVA) that offers various qualifications and assessments. They have a long history, with over 40 years of experience in developing and awarding qualifications. Their mission is to empower learners through inclusive and high-quality education and training.

AIM awarding body

To enhance the learning experience, learners have access to a variety of enrichment opportunities throughout the year. These include:

  • Visits to local health and care settings
  • Guest speakers from NHS and care organisations
  • Workshops on mental health, wellbeing and self-care
  • Volunteering placements and community projects
  • Confidence-building sessions and career planning events

These experiences help learners understand the sector, build their CV, and prepare for real-world employment.

  • In order to achieve the Level 3 Certificate in Health and Social Care learners must complete nine mandatory units.
  • They must also complete one extended assessment. (Assessed by NCFE externally.)
  • Learners will be required to attend placement in a real work environment to support their learning. The minimum required number of placement hours is 75 hours.
  • Assessment / Portfolio of course work.
  • Learning is assessed by a variety of methods to prepare you to study, these include written assignments, work booklets, presentations and tutor observation.
  • All of the assessment criteria in a unit must be met before the unit is deemed to be achieved.
  • You will be assigned a Personal Tutor who will support you throughout your period of study to enable progression by setting professional and personal targets.
  • Upon achievement of this Level 3 Certificate in Health and Social Care qualification learners will be able to progress to the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care.
  • The Certificate supports learners’ access to Higher Education and progression to further learning at Level 4 and above, and a wide range of job roles within the health and social care sector such as support worker (with extra training), and health care assistant.
  • This qualification is ideal for those who are already employed in a health and social care setting having already achieved a Level 2, and want to expand their knowledge further and gain an accredited Level 3 qualification to showcase their knowledge.

Course Details

Qualification

Entry 3

Exam Board

NCFE/CACHE

Study Mode

Full Time

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Located in West Bromwich, Sandwell College boasts best in class facilities and exceptional teaching standards.
Alongside delivering outstanding pass rates, the College is proud to offer unrivalled mental health services and welfare support, ensuring that every student has access to the advice and guidance they need.

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