The CACHE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is designed for students who are interested in developing a career within the Health and Social Care Sector.

Equivalent to up to three A Levels, this qualification combines theoretical knowledge with practical understanding to prepare learners for university, apprenticeships, or employment.

You will explore a range of topics including human development, safeguarding, equality and diversity, mental health, anatomy and physiology, communication, and person-centred care.

The course encourages learners to develop professional skills, critical thinking, teamwork, communication and problem-solving abilities that are highly valued within the healthcare and social care industries.

You will also complete work experience placements to develop practical experience within real care environments.

Study Mode Full Time
Suitable for 16-18
Duration 2 years

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Sector Overview

The Health and Social Care Sector is one of the UK’s largest and fastest-growing employment sectors, offering a wide range of rewarding career opportunities.
Professionals working within health and social care support individuals to improve their health, wellbeing, independence, and quality of life. The sector includes careers in nursing, midwifery, social work, mental health services, community care, residential care, and allied health professions. This course provides learners with the knowledge, practical skills, and professional behaviours needed to progress into higher education, apprenticeships, or employment within the sector.
Entry Requirements
The entry requirements for this course are:
- 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 (C) or above including English and maths
- Successful assessment and interview
- Commitment to study, research, and work placement requirements
- Interest in working within the Health and Social Care Sector
If required, you will study GCSE or Functional Skills English and/or maths alongside your course so you can progress to the next level. A DBS check may be required for placement activities.
What will I study?
This course consists of the following modules:
- Equality, diversity and rights in health and social care
- Human growth and development
- Safeguarding in health and social care
- Communication in care settings
- Anatomy and physiology
- Mental health and wellbeing
- Infection prevention and control
- Person-centred approaches
- Working in partnership
- Research methods in health and social care
- Supporting individuals with additional needs
- Public health
- Sociological and psychological perspectives
- Reflective practice and professional development
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed via: You will be assessed via:
- Written assignments
- Coursework projects
- Presentations
- Research tasks
- Professional discussions
- Portfolio work
Enrichment
To further enhance your progression, you will actively participate in trips, workshops, employer engagement activities, and healthcare-related events.
These may include:
- Guest speakers from the NHS and healthcare sector
- University visits and careers fairs
- Workshops on mental health and wellbeing
- Industry conferences and seminars
- Volunteering opportunities
- Health awareness campaigns
- Skills competitions and enrichment projects
Our Student Common Room is a great place to unwind and relax during your breaks. It features pool tables, table tennis, a gaming corner and lots of comfy sofas so you can refresh before your next lesson. Themed events are held in the Common Room so you can get the best experience of being a Waltham Forest College student.
Work Experience
You must complete work placement hours as an essential part of this programme.
Placement opportunities may include:
- Care homes
- Nurseries
- Community care organisations
- Healthcare environments
- Charitable organisations
Work experience allows learners to apply classroom knowledge in real working environments while developing employability and professional skills.
Progression Opportunities
The completion of this course will allow you to progress onto:
- University study in Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work, Psychology, Public Health, or Allied Health Professions
- Higher level Apprenticeships
- Employment within the health and social care sector
- HND or Foundation Degree programmes
- Further specialist study in health-related subjects
Alumni

Waltham Forest College is a vibrant and aspirational college and will support you to reach your career aspirations. Last year 90% of adult learners progressed onto a positive destination either to higher levels of study, employment, or an apprenticeship.