Level 3
Health & Social Care, NCFE Extended Diploma
Level 3
Health & Social Care, NCFE Extended Diploma
If you want a career where you can make a genuine difference to people's lives, this course is the perfect place to start. Combining classroom learning with valuable work placements, you'll develop the knowledge, practical skills, and professional confidence needed for university, apprenticeships, or a rewarding career in health and social care.
Course Overview
The NCFE CACHE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is a two-year programme designed for learners who are passionate about caring for others and want to build a career within the health or social care sectors. Combining academic study with practical experience, the course prepares you for progression into higher education or employment by helping you develop both the technical knowledge and professional behaviours expected within the industry.
Based at Weston College's Knightstone Campus, you'll be taught by experienced lecturers with extensive industry backgrounds who will help you understand the principles that underpin high-quality, person-centred care. You'll explore topics including safeguarding, communication, equality and diversity, health and wellbeing, legislation, and professional practice while developing the confidence to apply your learning in real-life situations.
Throughout your course, you'll complete valuable work placements in a range of care settings, allowing you to gain first-hand experience while developing the practical skills employers are looking for. In your second year, you'll tailor your studies by following either a Health Care or Social Care pathway, helping you prepare for your chosen career.
As a member of Weston College's Health & Social Care Career Excellence Hub, you'll benefit from strong partnerships with the NHS and local care providers, employer talks, guest speakers, educational visits, and career-focused activities that will help you develop valuable industry connections and prepare for your next steps.
What will I study?
You'll develop a thorough understanding of health and social care through a combination of classroom learning, practical activities, and workplace experience.
Core topics include:
• Safeguarding and duty of care • Health, safety, and infection prevention • Effective communication • Person-centred care • Equality, diversity, and inclusion • Human growth and development • Mental health and wellbeing • Legislation and professional practice • Supporting individuals with a range of physical, emotional, and mental health needs
During your second year, you'll specialise in one of two pathways:
Health Care Pathway
Ideal for learners interested in careers such as:
• Nursing • Paramedicine • Nursing Associate • Healthcare Practitioner • Allied Health Professions
Social Care Pathway
Ideal for learners interested in careers such as:
• Social Work • Residential Care • Community Support • Adult Social Care • Care Management
You'll also complete meaningful work placements that allow you to apply your learning within real health and social care environments.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment combines academic study with practical application.
Assessment includes:
• Coursework • Practical assignments • Observations during work placements • Case studies • Reflective journals • Written examinations
Additional Information
Throughout your course, you will benefit from:
• Membership of Weston College's Health & Social Care Career Excellence Hub • Work placements in local health and social care settings • Strong links with the NHS and local employers • Guest speakers from across the sector • Educational visits to hospitals, care homes, and community settings • Experienced industry lecturers • Career planning and university application support • Modern learning facilities at Knightstone Campus • Access to digital learning tools as part of Weston College's Microsoft Showcase College status
These opportunities will help you build valuable experience, professional networks, and the confidence needed to progress into your chosen career.
Entry Requirements
• Five GCSEs at grades 9–4, including English, maths, and science
You will also need:
• A genuine interest in health, wellbeing, and caring for others • A satisfactory DBS check to enable work placements
What can I do after this course?
Successful completion of this course opens the door to a wide range of progression opportunities.
You could progress to:
• University degrees in Nursing, Midwifery, Paramedic Science, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, or other health-related subjects • Higher or degree apprenticeships • Employment within the health and social care sector
Career opportunities following further study include:
• Adult Nurse • Children's Nurse • Paramedic • Nursing Associate • Healthcare Assistant • Social Worker • Community Support Worker • Residential Care Practitioner • Mental Health Support Worker
The qualification carries UCAS points, making it an excellent route into higher education and professional healthcare careers.
What do I do now?
Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page. From here you'll be taken through to our application portal.
Want to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next open event.
Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.
