New Health and Social Care course will help students make a difference

Barnsley College has a launched a new Level 3 Health and Social Care BTEC National Extended Diploma that will be available to applicants from September 2022.

This course is suited to those who are starting a career in the Health and Social Care industry or want a job where they can make a difference to people’s lives on a daily basis.

It has been designed specifically for people who wish to continue their education through applied learning and those who aim to progress to university or employment in the sector. It is equivalent to three A Levels and combines practical and technical skills giving students the opportunity to learn the theory and gain the vital work experience that employers are looking for.

This course will enable students to develop a deep common core of knowledge, understanding and skills in the sector through eight mandatory units including: anatomy and physiology; human lifespan development; meeting individual care and support needs; principles of safe practice; and public health. There is also the opportunity for each individual student to learn more about a particular interest in the field through a selection of optional units such as: infection protection and control; sociological perspectives; understanding mental wellbeing; and supporting individuals with additional needs.

As well as the theory content studied in the classroom, those who enrol onto this course will have the opportunity to develop a better understanding of the demands of the sector through a work placement. This takes place over a minimum of 100 hours throughout the course and will ensure students gain relevant workplace skills, enhance their self-confidence, maturity and independence as well increase their chance of a job offer in the future.

Once the course is completed, students will be fully prepared to progress onto a range of Barnsley College’s university-level courses including the Healthcare Assistant Practitioner Higher Apprenticeship, Professional Practice in Health and Social Care Foundation Degree or Lead Practitioner in Adult Care Apprenticeship. Students will also have the knowledge and skills to be able to apply for careers in a range of fields including midwifery, nursing and paramedic practice.

Claire Gedney, Course Leader for Health and Social Care Professions at Barnsley College said:

“Through a mix of coursework and unit exams, I believe the National Extended Diploma students are particularly well prepared for Higher Education and university-level study. The placement contribution on the BTEC is well-respected within the health community and will hopefully be regarded by universities, as it has before, as being one of the leading qualifications supporting career progression to Higher Education or employment because of the experience gained.”