National Extended Diploma in Health & Social Care
The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is a full-time, two-year qualification designed for students aged 16–18 who are passionate about making a difference in people’s lives. This programme offers an excellent route into a wide range of careers in health, care, and support services – including roles within the NHS, social services, and early years or adult care.
Blending classroom learning with hands-on work experience, this course provides the knowledge, practical skills, and professional understanding required to progress into higher education, employment, or health-related apprenticeships. It’s ideal for learners who are caring, committed, and interested in helping others lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
What You Will Learn
You’ll study a wide range of topics that reflect the real-world challenges and responsibilities of working in health and social care settings.
Core Knowledge
Human lifespan development – physical, intellectual, emotional and social growth from birth to old age.
Working in health and social care – professional roles, values, and working practices.
Anatomy and physiology – how the body functions and how health conditions affect people’s lives.
Principles of safe practice in health and social care.
Supporting individuals with additional needs.
Public health and promoting wellbeing.
Practical Skills Development
Developing effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Working in teams to deliver care and support.
Understanding safeguarding, confidentiality, and professional boundaries.
Managing health, hygiene, and safety in care settings.
Planning and reviewing care strategies for service users.
This course combines academic study with practical learning, preparing you for a career in a people-focused profession.
Apply for this course
Select from the start date/s below…
North Devon Campus
Course details
Assessments
Assessment is a combination of internally assessed coursework and externally assessed units set by the awarding body (Pearson BTEC).
Written Assignments – exploring key topics in detail.
Presentations and Role Plays – developing confidence and professional behaviours.
Case Studies and Reports – applying knowledge to real-life scenarios.
Externally Set Exams and Controlled Assessments – in core areas such as anatomy and physiology.
Placement Feedback and Observation – assessing performance in a real-world care setting.
This structure supports learners who prefer a continuous assessment approach over final exams.
Entry Requirements
To be accepted onto this Level 3 programme, you must hold at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including GCSE Maths and English Language.
To enrol on this course, you will typically need:
Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and ideally Maths or Science.
A clear interest in health, care, or social support work.
A successful interview and a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check to allow for work placement.
Learners with Level 2 qualifications in health and social care (or related vocational courses) may also progress to this course.
Progression
This course is equivalent to three A Levels and carries UCAS points, making it a strong foundation for both university and employment.
Further Training & Education
Progression to university to study degrees such as:
Nursing (adult, mental health, or child)
Social Work
Midwifery
Paramedic Science
Occupational Therapy
Psychology or Public Health
Higher Apprenticeships in Health and Social Care, Social Work, or Health Science.
Career Pathways
With further training or education, this course can lead to roles such as:
Nurse or Midwife
Social Worker
Health Care Assistant
Mental Health Support Worker
Youth Worker or Family Support Worker
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Residential Care or Day Centre Worker
Facilities and resources
You will be provided with the opportunity to apply your learning to practical tasks within our simulated clinical area. We also work closely with local organisations, to enable our students to experience real-life placements within the industry. You will have the opportunity to develop transferable, relevant skills which enhance your CV or UCAS application.
FAQs
Q: Is this qualification equivalent to A Levels?
A: Yes, the full Extended Diploma is equivalent to three A Levels and carries UCAS points for university applications.
Q: Is work placement compulsory?
A: Yes – you’ll need to complete a minimum of 100 hours of placement each year, which gives you vital practical experience.
Q: Can I go to university after completing this course?
A: Absolutely. Many students progress to university to study health, social care, or related subjects.
Q: Will I need a DBS check?
A: Yes. As part of your placement requirements, you’ll need an enhanced DBS check to ensure suitability for working with vulnerable people.
Q: Are there any exams?
A: Yes – some units are externally assessed through exams or controlled assessments, but the majority of your course will be coursework-based.
Q: Is this course suitable if I want to become a nurse or social worker?
A: Yes – it’s an excellent starting point for careers in nursing, midwifery, social work, and more. Many students progress directly to relevant university degrees.
Study Programme
Every full-time student at Petroc will have their own Study Programme which will include:
– Your academic or vocational qualification.
– Maths and English Language development – if you have not achieved GCSE grade 4 in either of these subjects.
– Work Experience – hours will vary depending on your qualification and course level.
– Tutor Support – to support your personal, academic and professional development.
– Sustainability – helping you to identify how you can improve the sustainability of your future employment sectors.
– Personal Development Awards – developing six key areas of personal and employability behaviours to prepare you for the working world.
As this course requires you to undertake work placements with children and/or vulnerable adults, a DBS check is required.
Why Petroc should be your first choice
Petroc offers quality education and training across North and Mid Devon. We aim to provide outstanding learning, excellent facilities, strong connections to employers and a supportive environment to help you fulfil your education goals and set you on your path to the career of your dreams.
SUPPORTIVE
We offer a supportive and inclusive environment where you can flourish and feel a valued member of the college and wider community.
INSPIRING
Our teaching spaces and facilities are some of the best in the region, providing stimulating and true-to-life learning environments.
CONNECTED
We’ll provide you with the experiences you need to be ready for employment or the next step on your educational journey.
