Health and Social Care (Double)

BTEC / 2 year Course / Pearson

The BTEC National Diploma in Health and Social Care is a Level 3 qualification designed to provide a highly specialist work-related qualification in the health, social care and early years sectors. It gives students the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to prepare for higher education programmes, apprenticeships or employment.

More on this course

The BTEC National Diploma qualification has been developed in collaboration with employers and representatives from higher education and professional bodies to ensure students have the knowledge, understanding, skills and attributes relevant to Health and Social Care. Within this qualification, a number of examination units are undertaken:

The first, Human Lifespan and Development (Unit 1) allows students to learn about factors which can influence human growth, development and human health. Within this unit, students will also learn a number of theories and models to explain and interpret behaviour through lifespan.
The second examination is entitled Working in Health and Social Care (Unit 2). Within this unit, students will learn about how to promote equality and diversity within the industry and will look at the skills and attributes required for developing relationships with service users as well as examining ethical issues and studying legislation which underpins care environments.
The final examination is entitled Enquiries into Current Research in Health and Social Care (Unit 4). Within this unit, students will explore research and the impact it has on health and social care practice and services. Coursework units are also undertaken.

Teaching and learning methods

Students will develop their critical-thinking skills, resilience and interpersonal skills and learn how to research actively and independently to become an effective writer. As 46% of the course is assessed by external examinations, students will also develop exam-based skills.

Assessment

The BTEC Level 3 National Diploma is equivalent to two A Levels and includes eight units, three of which are externally assessed, two through written examinations and one by examination of pre-released material. The other units are internally assessed through coursework. Qualifications are graded using a unit grading scale reflecting the nature of this double qualification, PP -D*D* and recognised by UCAS with a tariff of up to 112 points for a D*D*, the same as two A*s at A Level.

Skills and Careers Insight

Studying BTEC Health and Social Care equips you with essential skills like communication, empathy, problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking, all crucial for working with people in need. You'll gain hands-on experience in healthcare practices, safeguarding, and understanding human development, preparing you for rewarding careers in nursing, social work, midwifery, care work, occupational therapy, and mental health support. This qualification opens doors to both immediate employment in healthcare settings and further study in fields like medicine, psychology, and public health. If you're passionate about making a difference in people’s lives, this course is your gateway to a fulfilling and impactful career.

Subject Combination

This BTEC National Diploma works well with a wide range of subjects, since throughout this course students will learn a broad base of transferable skills. Those students who are interested in NHS pathways may wish to consider other science subjects such as the BTEC Forensic & Crime Investigation. Students interested in primary education may wish to consider a National Curriculum subject covered at primary level.

Medical Science

Forensic & Criminal Investigation

Student Testimonials

What do our students think about studying here?

I think the best thing about Durham Sixth Form Centre is the fact that it’s a mature environment and it gives you the independence you need.

Sam Henig

Previous school - Wellfield School

I think Durham Sixth Form Centre is a perfect choice because the lessons are well planned and there is a brilliant balance between independent learning and support from all teachers.

Hannah Warwick

Previous school - Hermitage Academy

When I was in Year 11, the biggest worry for me was the transitional period between Year 11 and Year 12. But the support and the teachers made this so much smoother for me moving from my secondary school to Durham Sixth Form Centre.

Jenni Fairish

Previous school - Whitworth Park Academy

The atmosphere and quality of teaching at Durham Sixth Form Centre is very impressive and you can see a great deal of passion from the educators, which is something I believe is very important.

Logan Aitchinson

Previous school - Park View School

Even if you start Durham Sixth Form Centre with no idea where you’re going, you will get the opportunities to talk about your future and go through it and you’ll know what you’re doing later on.

Alice Robson

Previous school - Belmont School

Durham Sixth Form Centre stood out to me for its amazing choice of subjects. I struggled to find anywhere else that would accommodate all my subjects and my specific combination.

Abbie Clifford

Previous school - Hermitage Academy