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Social Care

Technical Occupational Diploma, Level 3

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Nurse helping an elderly woman walk

Course Length

2 years

Course Cost

No fee (16-18)

£9,072 (Adult)

Financial support 19+

Start Date

06/09/2027

Course Information

Start your journey towards a rewarding career in health and social care with our brand new qualification.

This industry-focused qualification is designed to give you the knowledge, practical skills and confidence needed to progress into employment or further study within the health and social care sector. You’ll explore key topics such as safeguarding, communication, equality and diversity, person-centred practice, and supporting individuals with a range of needs.

You will develop the practical skills, professional behaviours, and sector knowledge required to support individuals with a range of needs in residential, community, and domiciliary care settings. Ideal for school leavers and adults looking to begin a rewarding career in care, this qualification supports progression into employment, apprenticeships, or further study within health and social care.

Course code: 89744-01

  • Who is this course for?
    Ideal for school leavers and adult learners looking to begin a career in care, this course combines classroom learning with real-world insight to prepare you for roles in residential care, community support, and other vital care settings. If you’re compassionate, motivated, and ready to make a difference in people’s lives, this course is your first step towards a meaningful and in-demand career in social care.
  • Units and Modules

    A total of 23 units that together provide a comprehensive introduction to working in adult social care.

    The units cover key areas such as safeguarding and protection, duty of care, health and safety, infection prevention and control, equality and diversity, and person-centred practice. Learners explore effective communication, partnership working, professional values and behaviours, and the importance of maintaining dignity and respect.

    The qualification also develops knowledge of supporting individuals with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health conditions, dementia, and other complex needs. In addition, units focus on promoting wellbeing, supporting independence, understanding legislation and regulatory frameworks, and reflecting on professional practice.

    Collectively, these units equip learners with the knowledge, practical understanding, and workplace readiness required for entry-level roles within the adult social care sector.

  • Benefits and Skills
    By the end of the course, learners are equipped not only with sector-specific knowledge but also with transferable skills such as empathy, organisation, problem-solving and teamwork — all highly valued across the care industry.
  • Entry Requirements
    Five GCSE's at 4 or above including Maths and English. Science is beneficial.
  • Careers and Progression

    The qualification is equivalent to three A-levels that prepares learners for direct entry into the social care sector or progression into higher education. After completing the course, individuals can move into roles such as care worker, support worker, community support worker, or personal assistant in residential, community, or domiciliary care settings, with opportunities to progress into senior or specialist positions through further experience and training.

    The qualification also provides a pathway to university study in areas such as nursing, social work, occupational therapy, health and social care management, and other allied health professions, as well as progression to higher-level apprenticeships or Level 4 and 5 qualifications for those aiming for supervisory or leadership roles in the future.

  • Assessment
    Assessment typically includes internally assessed coursework such as assignments, projects, case studies, and portfolio evidence based on realistic workplace scenarios, alongside employer-set projects that reflect real occupational tasks. In addition, there is an externally assessed component, usually in the form of a written examination or externally set assessment, which evaluates learners’ understanding of core principles and theoretical knowledge. This blended approach ensures learners demonstrate both academic understanding and the practical skills required for working in social care settings.

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