BTEC Health and Social Care

4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above

Including GCSE English Language grade 3

Including GCSE Maths grade 3

You will study a range of units from the OCR Level 2 Health & Social Care specification, assessed through a mix of exams and coursework:

Principles of Working in Health, Social Care and Childcare – Exam. Some work experience placements require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

The College will cover the cost of any required DBS checks

Students must provide valid identification documents, such as:

a passport

utility bills

Guidance on the DBS process and required documentation will be provided by the course team.

Health and Safety in Practice – Exam

Working in a Person-Centred Way – Coursework

Safeguarding – Coursework

Working in Childcare Environments – Coursework

(Units combine underpinning knowledge with practical, applied understanding.)

The course is taught by experienced and well‑qualified staff, with an emphasis on a new way of working where students take responsibility for their own learning. Coursework is monitored continually, and students are expected to work independently outside lessons to complete assignments by agreed deadlines.

You will be set assignments which you will complete to agreed deadlines. Two units are assessed and graded internally by course teachers. Two units are examined. A Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction* will be awarded when all units have been completed.

Compulsory Placement/Work Experience

You must undertake a one-week, work experience placement in a health, social or childcare setting (a nursey or a care home) in March as part of the course. Students are expected to find their own suitable placement.

Teaching spaces designed for applied learning

Coursework support and structured guidance

Access to learning resources to support assignments and exams

There may be travel costs associated with attending work experience placements.

If a placement requires a DBS check, this will be organised and paid for by the College.

There are no restricted subject combinations. Your wider ATL3 programme will be discussed to ensure it supports your future goals.

Students achieving an overall Merit or above may be considered for progression to:

Cambridge Technical AAQ in Health & Social Care

(equivalent to 1 A‑level)

Technical Diploma in Health & Social Care

(equivalent to 2 A‑levels)

The OCR Level 2 Cambridge Technical Diploma is also valued by employers for jobs and apprenticeships.

Work experience and applied learning form a key part of the course, helping you gain insight into real health and childcare environments.