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level 3 national extended diploma in health and social care

The Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care equips learners with the skills and knowledge needed for a rewarding career in care. This comprehensive qualification focuses on…

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Why enrol on this course?

The Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care equips learners with the skills and knowledge needed for a rewarding career in care. This comprehensive qualification focuses on healthcare practices, well-being, and supporting individuals across diverse settings.


Designed for those passionate about making a difference, it prepares students for roles in nursing, social work, or care management. Through practical learning and theory, learners develop essential competencies like communication, safeguarding, and person-centered care.


Take the first step toward a fulfilling future—explore how this diploma can shape your career today.

About this course

The Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care equips learners with essential skills for a rewarding career in the sector. This comprehensive course covers key topics like safeguarding, communication, and promoting well-being, preparing students for real-world challenges. With a focus on practical experience and theoretical knowledge, graduates gain a competitive edge in healthcare and social care roles. Career prospects include positions in nursing, social work, and care management, with opportunities for further study at university. Unique features like industry placements and expert-led training ensure students are fully prepared to make a positive impact in their communities.

Who is this course for?

Who is this for? Your Profile & Ambition The UK Landscape
The Aspiring Practitioner You are passionate about making a tangible difference in people's lives. You're looking for a course that provides a direct pathway into the rewarding health and social care sector, whether you aim to progress to university or step straight into a caring profession. With over 1.5 million people working in social care alone in England, and the NHS being one of the UK's largest employers, the demand for skilled, qualified professionals has never been higher.
The Future University Student You have your sights set on a degree in nursing, midwifery, social work, occupational therapy, or paramedic science. This diploma provides the essential UCAS points and foundational knowledge required for competitive university applications. This qualification is widely recognised by UK universities, acting as a robust alternative to A-Levels and a proven route into higher education for health-related degrees.
The Hands-On Learner You thrive on practical, real-world learning rather than purely academic study. This course is built around developing the vocational skills and competencies that employers across the UK care sector are actively seeking. The sector values practical experience. This diploma often includes work placements, giving you a crucial advantage and a foot in the door with local health and social care providers.

Key facts


The Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is a substantial two-year, full-time qualification designed to provide a deep and comprehensive foundation for a career in the caring professions.
It is equivalent to three A-Levels, making it a robust pathway for students aiming to enter university or employment directly after completion.

Key learning outcomes focus on developing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for the sector.
Students will gain a thorough understanding of human growth and development, sociological and psychological perspectives, and the importance of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of service users.
The curriculum also covers vital principles like effective communication, equality, diversity, and rights in health and social care settings.

A core component of this vocational qualification is the practical work experience placement, which is mandatory.
This hands-on experience allows learners to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world environments like hospitals, care homes, or community support services, enhancing their employability skills.

The industry relevance of this diploma is exceptionally high, as it directly prepares learners for roles such as care support workers, healthcare assistants, and community support workers.
It is also a widely recognised and respected qualification for progression to higher education degrees in nursing, social work, occupational therapy, and other allied health professions.
This makes the Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care a crucial stepping stone for anyone committed to a professional career in this vital and rewarding sector.

Why this course?

Sector Projected Growth (2022-2027)
Adult Social Care 29%
Childcare & Early Years 13%
Health Support Roles 22%
The Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is a critical qualification for entering the UK's rapidly expanding care sector. With an ageing population and rising demand for support services, this diploma provides the essential knowledge and practical skills employers urgently seek. The qualification covers health and social care principles, communication, and safeguarding, preparing learners for roles like care support workers, healthcare assistants, and youth workers. The sector's growth, as shown in the data, underscores the strong job market prospects. This makes the diploma a powerful asset for those seeking a rewarding and stable career in care, directly addressing the industry's need for a skilled, qualified workforce. It’s a vital stepping stone for both immediate employment and further professional development.

Career path

The Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care opens doors to a variety of rewarding career pathways in the UK's growing sector. This qualification provides the essential practical skills and theoretical knowledge required to excel. Senior Care Workers are in high demand, providing direct support and leading teams in residential settings. The role of a Mental Health Support Worker is increasingly vital, focusing on therapeutic support and promoting wellbeing in community and hospital environments. As a Health Care Assistant within the NHS, you become part of the frontline team, delivering essential patient care and support in hospitals or clinics. Community Support Workers empower individuals to live independently, working with diverse groups including the elderly and those with learning disabilities. A Residential Childcare Worker plays a crucial role in creating stable, nurturing environments for young people in care, focusing on their development and emotional health. Each of these roles represents a critical part of the UK's health and social care infrastructure, offering stable employment and the chance to make a real difference.

Course information

Duration

The programme is available in 2 duration modes:

  • 6 months
  • 9 months
Course delivery

Online

Entry requirements
  • A Level 2 diploma or certificate, or an equivalent or higher qualification.
  • OR Candidates with relevant professional experience are encouraged to apply and start advancing their career journey.
  • AND Minimum age of 16 years.
* International applicants and qualifications are accepted.
Course content
• Principles of Safeguarding and Protection in Health and Social Care
• The Role of Health Education and Health Promotion
• Psychological Perspectives for Health and Social Care
• Sociological Perspectives for Health and Social Care
• Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care
• Personal and Professional Development in Health and Social Care
• Supporting Individuals with Additional Needs
• Nutritional Health
• Infection Prevention and Control in Health and Social Care
• Research Skills for Health and Social Care
Assessment

Assessment is via assignment submission.

Fee structure

The fee for the programme is as follows:

  • 6 months — Accelerated mode @ GBP £1250
  • 9 months — Standard mode @ GBP £950
Fee payment plans

The programme offers the following fee payment plans:

6 months programme

● Payment option (a): GBP £416 x 3 monthly instalments
● Payment option (b): GBP £1187.50 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)

9 months programme

● Payment option (c): GBP £190 x 5 monthly instalments
● Payment option (d): GBP £475 x 2 quarterly instalments
● Payment option (e): GBP £902.50 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)
Accreditation
For detailed information, we kindly advise you to chat with our admissions team.

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