Qualification Gained: Northern Council for Further Education Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care
Study LevelLevel 3 Course TypeSchool Leavers Duration2 Academic Years Start DateSeptember 2026 Study ModeFull-time LocationDavid Hockney BuildingIs this course for you?
If your goal is to progress on to Higher Education to become a fully qualified health and social care professional, then this course can help you achieve your goals.
The Level 3 Diploma Technical Occupational entry into Social Care can provide a route to higher level study and a variety of rewarding careers in the sector. Successfully completing this course is equivalent to you achieving 3 A levels.
In addition to college-based learning, you will also develop hands-on practical skills and experience by doing a mandatory placement, in a suitable health and social care setting.
The Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry in Social Care is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and values required to deliver high-quality, person-centred care across a variety of health and social care settings.
This comprehensive programme addresses the core principles of social care, including safeguarding, equality and diversity, communication, and professional development.
Students will explore the psychological, sociological, and biological foundations of care, alongside practical approaches to supporting individuals with complex needs such as dementia, autism, and learning disabilities.
By completing this qualification, students will gain the confidence and competence to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, uphold professional standards, and contribute to improving the wellbeing of those they support. This programme is ideal for those seeking a career in social care.
Working in Social Care – Introduction to roles, responsibilities, and professional standards.
Equality, Diversity, Dignity and Rights in Social Care – Promoting inclusive and respectful care practices.
Duty of Care – Understanding legal and ethical responsibilities.
Communication in Social Care – Effective communication strategies for care environments.
The Care and Support Planning Process – Developing and implementing care plans.
Person-Centred Approaches and Risk Assessments – Balancing individual needs with safety.
Values and Behaviours – Professional conduct and ethical frameworks.
Advocacy in Social Care – Supporting individuals’ rights and choices.
Safeguarding in Social Care – Protecting vulnerable individuals from harm.
Mental Health and Wellbeing – Supporting emotional and psychological health.
Health and Safety in Social Care – Ensuring safe working environments.
Prevention and Control of Infection – Infection control principles and practices.
Personal and Professional Development – Building skills for career progression.
Working with Others – Teamwork and collaboration in care settings.
Research in Social Care – Evidence-based practice and continuous improvement.
Good Practice in Social Care – Standards and quality assurance.
Psychology in Social Care – Understanding behaviour and mental processes.
Sociology of Health and Illness – Social factors influencing health outcomes.
Understanding Anatomy and Physiology – Basic biological principles relevant to care.
End-of-Life Care – Providing compassionate support during final stages of life.
Learning Disabilities – Supporting individuals with learning challenges.
Dementia Awareness – Understanding and managing dementia care.
Understanding Autism – Approaches to supporting autistic individuals
You need to have 5 GCSEs at a minimum of grade 4 including in Maths and English.
Assessment is through course work marked by your tutors which will be externally moderated.
A mandatory 30-hour placement in real Social Care settings is a key part of the course, offering hands-on experience and professional development.
This new qualification has been created with employers for the real world. Built around employer-led occupational standards, meaning it’s shaped by what the care sector needs. It is recognised by universities to support progression. With a significant number of UCAS points, it provides access to social work and adult nursing degrees, while also preparing students for direct entry into the health and social care workforce. (e.g. Distinction = 144, Distinction* = 168).
It will give you access to degrees such as Social Work and Healthcare.
Other Costs: This course is fully funded for 16-18 year old's.
This is representative of the most common fees scenario, but actual fees can vary depending on a number of factors. Please contact us if you need more guidance.
Bradford College has established itself as a key player in supporting the National Health Service (NHS) workforce by providing health & social care education and training to hundreds of young people and adults. Here, we outline how Bradford College supports not only the local NHS Trust in Bradford, but also how we work with NHS […]
If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact [email protected]
Disclaimer: Our prospectus, college documents and website are simply here to offer a guide. We accept no liability for any inaccurate statements and are not responsible for any negative outcomes if you rely on an inaccurate statement. We reserve the right to withdraw any programmes or service at any time.
Course information code: PA000410
