Course Overview

Entry requirements

A minimum of four GCSEs at grade 4 – 9, or equivalent, including English Language and /or Maths at grade 4 or above.

Course information

The BTEC Level 3 National in Health and Social Care AAQ (Extended Certificate) is designed for students aged 16 and over who are interested in pursuing a career in the health and social care sectors. This qualification prepares students for higher education and career paths such as nursing, social work, and occupational therapy. The course offers a broad curriculum combining theoretical knowledge and practical skills through coursework and examinations. It builds on GCSE-level knowledge and provides a comprehensive foundation for future academic and professional development in health and social care.

Key topics

Students must complete three mandatory units and one optional unit.

Mandatory Units:

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's health status.

One optional unit chosen by NCC from the four optional units below:

Health, Social Policy and Wellbeing – Public health policy and its influences,
including health-related organisations/groups and a range of strategic factors.
Promoting Health Education – Health education, its purpose and the use of different
approaches and models to achieve positive health outcomes.
Safe Environments in Health and Social Care – Appropriate provisions in services
relevant to different needs; governance relating to safe environments.
Health Science – Types of infections and their potential impact on a local,
national and international scale.

How you are assessed

The course is assessed by a combination of 2 exams (externally assessed) and 2 coursework units (internally assessed).
Why study at NCC?

If you choose us, you will join a college that will support you and drive you at every stage to be tenacious, determined and committed so that you do achieve your very best. We offer the widest range of courses of any provider in East London – ranging from entry level to postgraduate degrees, and from recreation to courses for job seekers. This means we can provide you with all the pathways needed to progress on to a higher course or straight to employment. We deliver high quality education and training – with excellent support – that responds to the needs of employers and businesses. Our teachers are experts in their own fields with a depth of knowledge and expertise that ensures you get the best from your educational experience and that you have the edge for employment over other candidates.