Safeguarding

Key Facts

Level 3 CACHE Extended Diploma In Health And Social Care

The NCFE CACHE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is a comprehensive qualification designed for learners who wish to progress to Higher Education or pursue a career within the health and social care sector. Developed in collaboration with industry experts, employers and higher education institutions, the programme provides learners with the knowledge, understanding and practical skills required to work effectively in a range of health and social care environments.

The qualification combines theoretical study with practical workplace experience, enabling learners to develop both academic knowledge and professional competence. It is equivalent in size to three A Levels and attracts UCAS tariff points for progression to university. When you have finished the course, you may choose to go into full-time employment or higher education. Work placement is an essential and mandatory part of the course and is well regarded by universities and employers.

  • Entry Requirements


    4 x GCSE's at grade 4 or above, including English and mathematics OR

    Level 2 Extended Certificate in a relevant subject, at Merit or above, including English and maths GSCE at grade 4 or above or Functional Skills Level 2 Literacy and Numeracy.

    We are firmly committed to finding the right course for you to ensure you can flourish. Talk to us today if you have any concerns about the application process, we are here to help take you to the next level.

  • Course Content


    The course consists of mandatory and optional units.

    Mandatory units include:

    • Equality, Diversity and Rights in Health and Social Care
    • Human Growth and Development
    • Safeguarding in Health and Social Care
    • Communication in Health and Social Care
    • Infection Prevention and Control in Health and Social Care
    • Psychological Perspectives in Health and Social Care
    • Sociological Perspectives in Health and Social Care
    • Working in Health and Social Care
    • Reflective Practice
    • Empowerment in Health and Social Care
    • Protection of Children, Young People and Adults in Health and Social Care
    • Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care
    • Research Skills for Health and Social Care
    • Personal and Professional Development

    Half of the mandatory and optional will be studied during Year 1 with the remaining half during Year 2.

  • Progression Next Steps


    Successful completion of the NCFE CACHE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care can support progression to:

    Higher Education

    • Adult Nursing
    • Children's Nursing
    • Mental Health Nursing
    • Midwifery
    • Social Work
    • Occupational Therapy
    • Paramedic Science
    • Health and Social Care Degrees
    • Public Health Programmes

    Employment Opportunities

    • Healthcare Assistant
    • Care Support Worker
    • Community Support Worker
    • Residential Care Worker
    • Domiciliary Care Worker
    • Support Worker in Supported Living Services

    The qualification provides a strong foundation for both university study and employment within the health and social care sector.

    During your time with us you will have access to our dedicated careers advisor who will help you as you take the next steps towards achieving your goals.

  • Additional Information


    As part of the qualification, learners must complete work placement in a real health or social care environment. Placement opportunities may include:

    • Hospitals
    • Residential care homes
    • Nursing homes
    • Children's centres
    • Health centres
    • Day care services
    • Community care settings
    • Supported living services
    • Special schools
    • Voluntary organisations
  • Course Structure


    The qualification is delivered over two academic years and consists of a combination of mandatory and optional units, externally assessed components and work placement requirements.

    Learners are required to complete all mandatory units, optional units, external assessments and placement hours.

  • Assessment Details


    Assessment is carried out through a combination of:

    • Internally assessed coursework and assignments
    • External assessments
    • Synoptic assessment activities
    • Practical work placement evidence
    • Reflective accounts and professional development records

    Learners are required to successfully complete both internal and external assessment components to achieve the qualification.

  • Teaching and Learning


    Teaching is delivered through a variety of engaging methods designed to support both academic achievement and professional development, including:

    • Classroom-based lectures and discussions
    • Group activities and collaborative learning
    • Practical workshops and simulations
    • Independent research projects
    • Case study analysis
    • Guest speakers from industry
    • Tutorials and academic support sessions
    • Work placement learning
    • Reflective practice activities

    Learners are encouraged to develop critical thinking, communication, problem-solving and professional skills that are essential for success in health and social care settings.