BTEC National in Health and Social Care (Extended Certificate) - Level 3
Overview
IMPORTANT
Applications are now open for academic year 2026/2027, but our full-time courses are still being finalised. If your chosen course changes, we’ll contact you to offer a suitable alternative that matches your goals. For more information, call our Enquiries Team on 0808 100 3626.
This course is part of our 2+1 offer and MUST be studied alongside two other A Level courses only. It is the equivalent to 1 A Level.
This qualification allows learners to engage in a broad investigation of various aspects of the health and social care sector. Whilst it has a strongly contextualised approach to learning, and explores a wide range of possible careers in the sector, it is primarily intended for students who wish to progress into higher education (either at university or through a higher-level apprenticeship) as a pathway to employment.
What does it combine with?
Attend an A Level open event
Over 70% of students achieved an A*-C grade in 2025. Join us to find out more about our A Level courses and to see our dedicated sixth form campus. Book today!
What will I study?
- Human lifespan and development – PIES and factors affecting growth and development, interventions and the different professionals providing care and treatment.
- Human biology and health – Human body structure and systems, normal physiological functioning and the impact of common disorders.
- Health and social care practice – Core principles, values and legislation that underpin and influence health and social care, and the effect of social determinants on an individual health status.
- Health, social policy and wellbeing – Public health policy and its influences, including health-related organisations/groups and a range of strategic factors.
Entry requirements
- GCSE English Language and GCSE Maths 4-9
- GCSE Double Science 4/4 and another GCSE grade 4-9
OR
- GCSE Triple Science grade 4/4/3 with 4 in Biology
- An overall average of a grade 4*.
*To work out your grade average, add all of your grades together and divide by the number of GCSEs you've taken. If you need help, please contact our Enquiries Team on 0808 100 3626 or via email at enquiries@wnc.ac.uk.
Study programmes - essential skills for employment
If you’re aged 16-18 (or 19-25 with an EHC Plan), we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.
Therefore, if you do not have GCSE grade 4-9 in either English Language or Maths, you will study one or both of these courses alongside your full-time study programme. If you do have GCSE grade 4-9 in English Language and Maths then you will not be required to undertake these subjects. By doing so, you'll be building a stronger set of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.
Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.
How long is the course?
Two years.
How will I be assessed?
There are two externally examined units and two internally assessed units. The internally assessed units give students the opportunity to engage in applied knowledge and understanding tasks to develop their health and social care knowledge.
What does the course lead to?
Students often go on to pursue careers in fields such as
- Nursing
- Dental professions
- Ambulance Service
- Midwifery
- Primary Care
- Psychological professions.
What can I progress onto?
The course is designed for students with an interest in health and social care and aiming to progress to higher education as a route to graduate level employment. Typical next steps are degree courses or higher-level apprenticeships in fields such as
- Health and Social Care
- Social Work
- Nursing
- Healthcare Science
- Paramedicine.