• Explain the roles and responsibilities of professionals within the health and social care sectors.
• Develop and apply effective communication skills in various health and social care settings.
• Understand the importance of promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in care settings.
• Implement safeguarding policies and procedures to protect vulnerable individuals.
• Recognise the importance of equality and diversity in health and social care environments.
• Plan and promote activities that enhance the health and well-being of individuals.

The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) is a non-ministerial government department responsible for regulating qualifications, exams, and assessments in England. Ofqual ensures that all qualifications offered by recognised awarding organisations meet rigorous national standards, giving you confidence that any Ofqual-regulated certificate is high-quality and widely accepted by employers and universities.

RQF

The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) is the system used in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland to standardise qualifications by level and size. Overseen by regulatory bodies such as Ofqual, the RQF ensures qualifications are consistent, transparent, and easily understood by learners, employers, and higher education institutions. All qualifications listed on the RQF are approved and awarded by recognised awarding organisations.

• Duration: 365 Days 
• Qualification Level: 3 
• Guided Learning Hours: 1185
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 1491
• UCAS Points: 168
• Awarded by: NCFE CACHE

• Learners over the age of 16 years are eligible to enrol for the course.
• It is recommended learners have GCSE in English and Maths or have a minimum Level 2 qualification or equivalent.
• Learners will be required to attend practical placement in a suitable health and social care setting to support their learning. The minimum required number of placement hours is 175 (including 75 hours completed during the Certificate).

• Care Support Workers
• Healthcare Assistants
• Community-Based Support Workers
• Support Workers
• Care Workers

• This course can be completed through two flexible study options to suit your lifestyle:
  • Standard Course Plan (9-12 months) – ideal for learners balancing other commitments.
  • Fast Track Option (6 months) – perfect for those who can dedicate intensive study time.
• Most learners complete within their chosen timeframe, though some may finish earlier depending on personal circumstances and available study time. We accommodate your pace with unlimited support for 12 months. This Level 3 Extended Diploma requires approximately 1185 guided learning hours.

T&C apply

• Written Assignments: Each unit includes written assignments that are evaluated by an internal assessor. Your personal tutor will review your work, providing constructive feedback and guidance to help you succeed.
• Practical Placement: Gaining practical experience is a fundamental part of the course. You are required to complete practical placements in suitable work settings such as nursing homes, adult residential care homes, health centres, day centres, children’s centres, domiciliary care agencies, assessment centres, or hospitals. You have the flexibility to choose your own placements, allowing you to experience various work environments and tailor your learning to your career goals.
• External Assessments: In addition to the written assignments and practical placements, you must complete two external assessments.
• Assessor Support: Throughout your studies, you will have comprehensive support from assessors through multiple channels, including telephone, WhatsApp, online discussions, email, and web chats.

For further details or any specific questions about the assessment process, please click the ‘Enquiry’ button below to get in touch with us.

After completing the Level 3 Extended Diploma, you can advance to the HNC or HND in Healthcare Practice. You also have the option to pursue a degree in health and social care, nursing, or counselling services.

Potential Academic Progression Pathways

• Step 01: HNC/HND in Healthcare Practice for England.
• Step 02: Degree programmes in nursing, counselling services, occupational therapy, social care, early years education, and youth and community.
• Step 03: Master’s Degree in Social Work, Health and Social Care Management

Alternative Pathways

• Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care
• Registered Nurse Training Programme
• Social Worker Registration and Training Programme

The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care will open up many fulfilling career opportunities in the health, health and social care, and public services sectors. The qualification equips learners with the in-depth skills and knowledge to care for patients through their many challenges in various circumstances. Certificate holders can pursue diverse roles in a range of health and social care settings. With further training and experience, there is potential to advance to positions such as Healthcare Workers, Social Care Workers, and other senior care roles. Additionally, the acquired skills are highly transferable and beneficial in many other careers, including social work, youth work, adult care, children’s care, and mental health support.

Here are some careers you could pursue, along with typical UK salaries (Source: Glassdoor):

• Support Workers: £23,500
• Care Workers: £28,000
• Healthcare Assistants: £28,000
• Care Support Workers: £28,000
• Community-Based Support Workers: £33,000

• From day one, we go above and beyond to help you succeed in your studies. The most valuable resource available to all our students is their tutor. When you enrol in this course, you are assigned a personal tutor with in-depth knowledge and experience in your chosen subject.
• Your assessment will be marked by your personal tutor, who will provide detailed feedback during your formative submissions. In addition to this, your tutor will offer pointers and advice on where you can improve. This guidance helps you get the most from your courses and continually enhance your skills.
• Our dedicated student support team is also readily available to provide advice and guidance, helping you navigate your course materials and resolve any queries. With just one click, you can trust that assistance is always there when you need it.