Level 2 First Extended Certificate in Health & Social Care

The BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care course is designed to give you the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills that you will need to prepare for employment within a wide range of caring services. It also provides you with the opportunity to potentially progress onto the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care. The Level 2 course takes one year to complete. You will learn about many aspects of caring for others and may have the opportunity to carry out a week’s work experience within a care setting towards the end of your course. This will enable you to put the learning you have gained in the classroom into practice in a relevant workplace. Modules include: health and social care values, effective communications, healthy living, impact of nutrition on health, human body systems and care of disorders, creative and therapeutic activities in a health and social care setting.

The study programme will also incorporate a range of work related experience activities to ensure that you have the breadth of skills required to progress to further/higher education, employment or an apprenticeship.

Alongside your course you will study maths and/or English to improve your skills in these vital subjects by attending structured weekly sessions as part of your timetable. Maths and English development is also integrated in practical assignments.

You will need 4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above. However, if you have a keen interest in the subject and commitment to succeed, your entry requirements will be discussed at interview.

There are two external examinations that will be completed during your course. You will be assessed using a variety of methods such as written course work, presentations, role play and practical observation. These will all count towards your final grade of Pass, Merit or Distinction.

If you wish to find out more you can contact Alison Barry by emailing: alison.barry@nscg.ac.uk

On completion of the Level 2 course you can go on to study further by progressing to the Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care. Alternatively you can choose to start an apprenticeship within a caring environment and continue to study with us on a part time basis. Advice and support is also offered from lecturers and the Young People’s Service based within the college, on employment opportunities in the workplace.

This course is free for anyone aged 16 – 18. If you are outside this age group, please contact Charlotte Robertson on 01782 254141 or email charlotte.robertson@nscg.ac.uk.

College Maintenance Allowance (CMA): Anyone with a household income under £26,000 can receive up to £20 per week financial support to help pay for travel and meals and meet the costs of essential trips, books, stationery and equipment. The payments will be subject to full attendance on your course. A range of other financial support is available, depending on your personal circumstances. For more details visit nscg.ac.uk/finance