Health and Social Care Level 3
Develop your knowledge, skills, and confidence to begin a rewarding career in the social care sector. This programme is designed with employers to ensure you gain practical, real-world experience alongside theoretical understanding. Equivalent to three A levels, it offers a strong alternative to a T Level and prepares you for both employment and further study in health and social care.
-
Description
You will study over two years, combining classroom learning with practical experience. The programme is structured across 23 units, giving you a broad and in-depth understanding of social care.
Key areas of study include:
- Working in social care
- Mental health and wellbeing
- Values and behaviours in care
- Care and support planning
- Learning disabilities
- Dementia awareness
- Infection prevention and control
- Health and safety
- Personal and professional development
You will also complete up to 150 hours of work placement in real care environments, such as residential homes, supported living, community settings, or children's services. This will help you build confidence, develop practical skills, and prepare for employment.
-
Entry requirements
To join this programme, you will need a minimum of four GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including English at grade 4/C, or a Level 2 Health and Social Care qualification with English at grade 4/C. A grade 4/C in Maths is preferred. If you have not yet achieved a grade 4/C in GCSE Maths, you will continue to study GCSE Maths alongside your programme.
The following skills are also desirable qualities for someone looking to work in this field:
- Communication
- Empathy
- Professionalism
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork
- Emotional resilience
- Organisation
-
Qualification
NCFE CACHE Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry Diploma in Social Care
-
Progression
After completing this programme, you could progress to:
- Further study at Newbury College or UCN
- Further study at another provider or university, including degrees in social care, nursing, social work, or counselling
- Apprenticeships in health and social care settings
- Careers such as care worker, personal assistant, community support worker, or activities coordinator
-
Assessment
You will be assessed through a range of coursework-based methods rather than final exams, including:
- Portfolio of evidence
- Written assignments
- Projects
- Synoptic assessments based on real-life scenarios
-
Home study
You will be expected to complete approximately 2 to 4 hours of independent study each week. This may include research, assignment work, and preparation for assessments, using digital platforms and standard IT equipment.
-
Work placement
You will complete up to 150 hours of work placement in a real social care setting. This may include residential or nursing homes, day centres, supported living, domiciliary care, or community-based services. You will also be required to obtain a DBS check before starting your placement, which will be arranged during induction.
-
Fees and additional costs
You will be required to contribute to the College Subscription Fund of £15. If you are over 18, there may be an additional registration fee if you have not previously registered with the awarding body. You may also need to purchase textbooks and suitable clothing for practical activities or placements. Educational visits and enrichment activities may incur additional costs, including travel and entry fees.
* Terms and conditions apply. The fees stated on this website are for guidance purposes only and should be checked before enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, fees shown are for tuition only, over one academic year. Where a course is longer than one academic year, the fees stated are for the first year, and the cost of the second or subsequent years will be discussed at interview. For details of fee remission for students over 19 click here. If you think you may be entitled to a concession or fee remission, or you would like more information on the additional costs associated with your chosen course, please contact us on 01635 845000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..