Health and Social Care

Health and Social Care
WJEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care: Principles and Context/City & Guilds Level 2 Health and Social Care: Core Adults
It is the Welsh Government’s ambition to develop a skilled health and social care workforce, which is highly regarded as a profession and a career of choice, and recognised for the vital role the Health and Social Care sector plays in supporting individuals throughout their life.
Is this course right for me?
This qualification is knowledge-based and for those who want to develop a breadth and depth of knowledge related to the health and social care/science sector and progress onto University or who wish to seek employment in the health or social care sector.
Successful completion of the Extended Diploma in year two is equivalent to three A-levels.
What are the entry requirements?
- Five GCSEs at grade C or above (may include one relevant equivalent) to include English Language/First Language Welsh and Mathematics
- Entry is subject to an enhanced DBS check
- Each application is considered on individual merit
- Entry is subject to attending a course information session or informal interview
Current student - what are the entry requirements?
- Successful completion of relevant Level 2 programme (including skills) and decision from progression board meeting
- GCSE English Language/First Language Welsh at grade C or above
- GCSE Mathematics at grade C or above
- Entry is subject to an enhanced DBS check
What will I learn?
Over two years, learners will study:
- Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health & Social Care: Principles and Context qualification
- Level 2 Health & Social Care: Core qualification, a mandatory qualification for any learner who wishes to seek employment in the health care sector
Health & Social Care: Principles and Context
This will cover the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills required by the health and social care sectors, providing a broad basis for further and/or higher education or employment.
The qualification will include the following units:
- Principles of care and safe practice within outcome focused person-centred care
- Factors affecting individuals growth and development across the lifespan
- Promoting the rights of individuals across the lifespan
- Understanding how the human body is affected by common conditions
- Supporting individuals at risk to achieve their desired outcomes
- Working in the health and social care sector
- Anatomy and Physiology for health and social care
- Supporting the health and well-being of adults in Wales to achieve positive outcomes
- Investigating contemporary issues in health and social care in Wales
Health & Social Care: Core
The qualification, known as the ‘Core’ will provide a thorough introduction to the principles, values and knowledge needed to work in the Health and Social Care sectors with adults, children and young people.
To achieve the Core qualification, learners must achieve the following units:
- Principles and values of health and social care
- Health and wellbeing
- Professional practice as a health and social care worker
- Safeguarding individuals
- Health and safety in health and social care
Work Experience
Learners will be required to undertake 100 hours of employer engagement, including a minimum of 60 hours work placement. This is integral and a mandatory part of completing this course.
Learners will also start an extended project, to be completed in Year 2.
Will I need to study additional English & Maths skills?
- the course you are taking at College
- what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language
If you are studying a construction/trade course (brickwork, carpentry, electrical or plumbing):
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications
All other courses:
- Wales Essential Skills Toolkit (WEST) in upskilling / Lessons in Financial Education
- A one year GCSE resit course in required subject/s
- A one or two year pre-GCSE upskilling course
- A one year GCSE START upskilling course
Can I do this course in Welsh?
Learners have the option to complete course assessment/assignments or elements of the course through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. Visit our Welsh Language in the College page to find out what else is available to you.
How will I be assessed?
- Continuous assessment during the course
- Internal assessment
- Written examination
What can I do next?
Successful completion of this course and progression to a higher level programme could lead to a number of future career opportunities including: Ambulance Care Assistant, Health Care Assistant, Care Worker, Social Worker, Support Worker, Learning Mentor.
If you are thinking about studying at degree level following this course please visit the university websites or UCAS (University Central Admissions Service) www.ucas.com to check any entry requirements.
Do I need to bring/buy any equipment?
- Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
- A memory stick/a small portable USB hard drive
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Are there any additional costs?
- No tuition fee
- We are waiving the Administration Fee for the academic year 2025/26
- Enhanced DBS Fee - £50, payable on enrolment
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Additional information
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Online Learning Elements? | Yes |
Sports Academy: While on this course you may be able to join our Sports Academy, if you have a talent for sport, find out what we offer on our Sports Academy page.