Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care BTEC

Course Code

BTEC National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care

Course Type

Course Duration

2 years

Location

Central Campus

Start Date

1 September, 2025
Sandwell College healthcare students

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is a two-year, full-time qualification designed to prepare learners for progression into higher education or a wide range of careers in the health and social care sector. This in-depth programme offers both academic and practical learning, making it ideal for those committed to working in areas such as nursing, social work, midwifery, occupational therapy, and related professions.

A key component of the course is a mandatory 100-hour work placement, giving learners hands-on experience in real care settings and allowing them to develop the practical skills and confidence needed in the workplace. To promote professionalism and prepare learners for employment in health and care environments, wearing a mandatory uniform is required throughout the course.

This qualification provides an excellent route into university-level study or directly into roles in health and social care services, equipping students with both the theoretical grounding and real-world experience to succeed.

You’ll need five GCSEs at Grade 4 and above, including Maths, English and Science.

Learners will study eight mandatory units, which provide a solid foundation of knowledge and skills essential for the industry:

  • Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care

  • Human Lifespan Development

  • Working in Health and Social Care

  • Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs

  • Principles of Safe Practice in Health and Social Care

  • Enquiries into Current Research in Health and Social Care

  • Promoting Public Health

  • Work Experience in Health and Social Care

In addition to the core units, students will select from a range of optional units to tailor their learning to their interests and career goals. These include:

  • Sociological Perspectives

  • Psychological Perspectives

  • Supporting Individuals with Additional Needs

  • Nutritional Health

  • Caring for Individuals with Dementia

Healthcare students get involved in a range of activities as part of their course, from organising gameathons to creating and editing their own magazine. Other activities our students get involved in are:

  • Dementia walk
  • Prevent talk
  • German Market
  • Care home visit
  • Sexual health
  • Mental health and well-being
  • Drug Awareness
  • Routes Puppets

Links to employers:

At Sandwell College, we work closely with a range of respected employers to help prepare you for the world of work. Through our industry connections, you’ll gain valuable insights and experience that reflect real workplace expectations.

Some of the employers we collaborate with include Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Albion Court Care Home, Cape Community Care Day Centre and more — all offering opportunities to learn from professionals, understand industry trends, and develop the skills that matter most to employers today.

  • Human Lifespan Development (External Exam)
  • Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care (External Exam)
  • Working in Health and Social Care (External Exam)
  • Enquiries into Current Research in Health and Social Care (External Exam)
  • Written reports & essays
  • Individual and group presentations
  • Role plays

This BTEC Health and Social Care Level 3 qualification can lead to a vast range of careers, and you can advance to employment or university.

Course Details

Qualification

Level 3

Exam Board

Pearson

Study Mode

Full Time

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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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