Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care

A career in health care or social care promises to be as rewarding as it is challenging, with no two days ever the same in this varied sector.

This Level 3 programme, equivalent to three A Levels, explores and investigates the Health and Social Care sector through a range of diverse units and will provide you with a broad scientific base. It will provide a opportunity to learn about a wide range of key Health and Social Care topics such as public health, sociological and psychological perspectives, human lifespan, working in Health and Social Care sector, research, anatomy and physiology, safeguarding and nutrition.

This will prepare you for advancing onto a Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC), university, an apprenticeship or employment. It may also be of note, in year 2, learners are able to transfer to the Health Studies pathway which is often preferred by universities for learners wishing to progress to midwifery.

As well as classroom based theory, you are expected to complete a work placement either as a volunteer or paid work providing it is within the Health and Social Care sector and completed outside of the course timetable.You will be required to complete a minimum of 100 hours per year or more. 

Assessment is continuous throughout the course and consists of a range of internal and external tasks including externally assessed exams and written assignments. You will be supported throughout by a personal tutor who will meet with you regularly to discuss your targets for achievement.

You will need a minimum of four or more high grades at GCSE in subjects relevant to the course you’d like to study, including maths and/or English Language at grade 4 or above. Alongside your course you can study Maths or English if you do not achieve a grade 4 at GCSE. You will also be required to attend an interview and provide a previous student report prior to the start of the course.

Your progress will be through a combination of methods assessed during the course. This will include externally set examinations and controlled assessments along with assignments, practical activities and project work. In addition to your tutor’s assessment you will develop the ability to carry out your own evaluation of your success. Having provided evidence in these ways to show that you are competent in each unit you will gain a Pass, Merit or Distinction grade.

If you wish to find out more you can contact Deborah Tatton, Curriculum Leader in Health & Social Care, by emailing: debbie.tatton@nscg.ac.uk or Louise Mitchell, Curriculum Leader in Health & Social Care, by emailing: louise.mitchell@nscg.ac.uk 

Successful students may wish to pursue further study at university level and gain entry into professional sectors such as nursing, social work, teaching etc. There are rewarding jobs in both the public and private sector.

This course is free for anyone aged 16 – 18.

College Maintenance Allowance (CMA): Anyone with a gross household income under £30,000 can receive financial support to cover college related costs such as transport, meals, course equipment and uniform. Bursary support is based on individual circumstances and will be allocated to best suit your individual needs. A range of other financial support is available depending on your personal circumstances. For more details visit nscg.ac.uk/finance