The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care is designed as a standalone qualification that provides learners with knowledge and understanding of the health and social care sectors, and specialist knowledge and understanding according to the units studied. The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care can provide a springboard to a university degree or Foundation Degree in an appropriate vocational discipline, to BTEC HNCs and HNDs, or to employment.

The Edexcel Level 3 BTEC National Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care consists of units that provide for a combined total of 360 guided learning hours (GLH) or 60 Credits for the completed qualification.

The course consists of 4 Units:

Unit 1: Human Lifespan Development

Unit 2: Working in Health and Social Care

Unit 5: Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs

Unit 10: Sociological Perspectives

Learning strategies:

Units will be delivered with a mixture of tutor input and learner-led activity, such as role plays and case studies. Learners will be given opportunities to develop and practise important communication skills while developing understanding of the theoretical concepts behind communication such as the imbalance in power inherent in the helping relationship, empowerment and learned helplessness. Peer observations, class discussions and will help to broaden learners’ understanding. Learners will explore the processes of teamwork and decision-making relevant to health and social care settings. They will also be encouraged to review, evaluate and improve their own skills in communication and interpersonal interaction skills. Learners will demonstrate an awareness of the equality and diversity of people encouraging discussion and debate, though sensitivity and tact will need to be exercised when learners begin to consider their own prejudices and experiences. Learners will be well prepared for the exam element of the course.