Structure and Content 

This Pearson AAQ BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care is designed to provide you with a solid foundation in the knowledge, understanding, and practical skills needed to pursue a career in the health and social care sector. It is a vocational qualification that blends academic study with real-world application, preparing you for both higher education and the world of work.

Who is the course for?

· Those who enjoy applied learning and prefer coursework alongside exams.

· Learners who want to combine this qualification with A Levels or other Level 3 qualifications.

Structure of the course

The qualification has three mandatory units covering the following topics:

• Human Lifespan and Development – PIES and factors affecting growth and development, interventions and the different professionals providing care and treatment (Exam)

• Human Biology and Health – Human body structure and systems, normal physiological functioning and the impact of common disorders (Exam)

• 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 (coursework)

Students have a choice from four optional units covering the following topics:

Selected: Promoting Health Education – Health education, its purpose and use of different approaches and models to achieve positive health outcomes (coursework)

Assessment

· External assessment: 2 units (written exams)

· Internal assessment: 2 units (coursework, case studies, presentations)

· A mix of theory, practical examples, and real-life application ensures a balanced and engaging approach

Skills you will develop

· Communication and interpersonal skills

· Critical thinking and problem-solving

· Understanding of human development across life stages

· Professional practice and ethical decision-making

· Teamwork, research, and independent learning skills

· Awareness of legislation, policies, and procedures in care settings

Supports other Level 3 Courses

The BTEC Extended Certificate works well alongside A level subjects such as:

· Biology

· Psychology

· Sociology

· English Language

· Other AAQ Qualifications

Undergraduate degree options

Students can apply for a wide variety of degrees such as Health and Social Care, Nursing, Social work, Youth Work and Community Support and Paramedic.

Students should ensure that they check the entry requirements for the degree they are interested in as entry requirements can vary.

You can also consider an apprenticeship. Many health trusts are developing apprenticeship programmes that can lead to a degree apprenticeship.

Possible Career Options

On successful completion of your degree or degree apprenticeship, you will be able to explore careers such as:

Progression to University and Careers

University Pathways:

· Nursing (Adult, Child, Mental Health)

· Social Work

· Midwifery

· Psychology

· Public Health

· Paramedic Science

· Occupational Therapy

· Education or Early Childhood Studies

Career Opportunities:

· Care Assistant

· Youth Worker

· Health Care Support Worker

· Social Services Assistant

· Community Support Role

Why choose this course?

✅ Learn through real-world contexts ✅ Gain UCAS points and apply to university ✅ Combine academic and hands-on experience ✅ Prepare for a career in a growing and essential sector

A-LEVEL ENTRY
REQUIREMENTS

VOCATIONAL COURSE
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS