Health and Social Care BTEC National Extended Certificate

The BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in Health and Social Care is a course for students with an interest in the work of the health and social care sectors. It generally taken alongside other qualifications as part of a 2 year programme of learning. This will enable students to progress to a degree programme chosen from a range of programmes in the health and social care sector.

BTEC Health and Social Care is suitable for a wide range of students due to the broad subject content and the varied methods of assessment. A genuine interest in the care is essential – the organisations, client groups, and professionals who make up the health and social care sectors.

This qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level.
There are 4 units which are covered over 2 years. The units covered are:

• Human Lifespan Development
• Working in Health and Social Care
• Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs
• Sociological Perspectives

2 units are internally assessed by way of coursework portfolio.

2 units are externally assessed by way of examinations lasting 1.5 hours each

Employers, professional bodies and higher education providers have worked with the exam board as part of the Employers and Stakeholder Advisory Group. Universities, professional bodies and businesses have provided letters of support confirming that these qualifications meet their entry requirements. These letters can be viewed on the Pearson website.(above)

BTECs embody a fundamentally learner-centred approach to the curriculum, with a flexible, unit-based structure and knowledge applied in project-based assessments. They focus on the holistic development of the practical, interpersonal and thinking skills required to be able to succeed in employment and higher education.

In the BTEC National units there are opportunities to give students practice in developing employability skills including:

• cognitive and problem-solving skills: use critical thinking, approach non-routine problems applying expert and creative solutions, use systems and technology
• intrapersonal skills: communicating, working collaboratively, negotiating and influencing, self-presentation
• interpersonal skills: self-management, adaptability and resilience, self-monitoring and development.

This course is delivered by:
Ms A Blackburn
Mrs J Shea