The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care is the equivalent to one A level. As a BTEC course, it differs from A level as it is more vocational in approach and the emphasis is on developing skills, as well as knowledge. It is made up of four units of work which are split over the two years. The course covers a number of topics including human lifespan development, meeting individual care and support needs and working in health and social care. The course is assessed through a combination of coursework and examinations. Coursework modules will be assessed internally whereas the examinations are assessed externally.
Students will need and develop a range of transferable skills that will help to prepare them for both university and the world of work. The ability to work independently is important, as well as the abilities to research methodically and give presentations. Students will also gain the essential employability skills of cognitive and problem-solving abilities, in addition to both intra– and interpersonal skills such as working collaboratively, communication and self-management.
“I have always wanted to have a career where I could help people and make a difference. This course will give me the foundations to go on and achieve my dream by helping me to gain the necessary skills and knowledge.”
Cultivating a wide variety of key skills, when combined with other Level 3 courses or A levels, this course is a great route to university for a wide variety of different degrees. Students who study the BTEC Health and Social Care course often eventually find employment within the fields of nursing, midwifery, primary education or social work as well as many other areas which involve working closely with the public.
