Care and Early Years - Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care

This course is now full at Castleford and Wakefield for September 2025 enrolment. Please see our wide range of alternative course options within this and other subject areas, which still have places available. For further information, contact course information on courseinfo@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk or call 01924 789111.

Students on this programme will study towards an Extended Diploma in Health & Social Care. The course is equivalent to 3 A Levels over two years. This course would be suitable for anyone interested in studying in health or social care subjects at university or a higher level, or for progression into the workforce. Students will learn in a variety of different ways, with a combination of classroom and practical learning. Enjoy a blend of classroom and practical learning, with guest speakers, trips, and visits from industry experts to boost your knowledge and skills.

This qualification provides learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills essential to the health and social care sector, and supports progression into Higher Education or the workplace.

The course has 14 mandatory units:

• Equality, Diversity and Rights in Health and Social Care
• Human Growth and Development
• Safeguarding in Health and Social Care
• Communication in Health and Social Care
• Infection Prevention and Control in Health and Social Care
• Psychological Perspectives in Health and Social Care
• Sociological Perspectives in Health and Social Care
• Working in Health and Social Care
• Reflective Practice
• Empowerment in Health and Social Care
• Protection of Children, Young People and Adults in Health and Social Care
• Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care
• Research Skills for Health and Social Care
• Personal and Professional Development

There are also 4 optional units to be completed throughout the course.

Students must complete at least 175 hours of work experience over the two years (75 in Year 1, 100 in Year 2). Units are internally assessed, with an additional extended assessment assignment to complete in each year.

5 GCSE’s Grade 9-4 including English and Maths.

This qualification supports progression to Health and Social Care related degrees or the workplace.