Health and Social Care Extended Certificate

Applications Open: - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - We would, ideally, like applications to be submitted by Thursday 8th January 2026, when planning for the timetable will begin, but applications will be accepted after this date

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

Minimum Entry Requirements

The admissions criteria for the Sixth Form are as follows:

- A minimum of 6 separately identifiable GCSE subjects (or equivalent) at an average grade of 5.5 or above

- These 6 subjects must include at least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and at least a grade 4 in Mathematics

- You will require a grade 6 or above in most subjects you wish to study at A Level

- To study Mathematics, Modern Foreign Languages or a Science subject you will require a grade 7

- To study Economics a grade 7 or above in Mathematics is required and a 6+ or above in Business or a related subject

- Students may be able to study a Science subject with a 6 grade but their 4th option choice must be STEM Access forming part of your Personal Enrichment Pathway

- For Further Mathematics you will need an 8 or 9

- Short Courses count as half a GCSE

- A positive attitude in your chosen subjects and a respect for school aims, objectives and ethos

- Commitment to the expectations of the Sixth Form and the school community

- Students will not be admitted if they have not completed the appropriate paperwork

The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Health and Social Care (Extended Certificate) is a vocational qualification designed for students interested in pursuing a career in the health and social care sector. This qualification is typically aimed at learners aged 16 and above and provides a solid foundation for further education or entry-level employment in various health and social care roles.

The Extended Certificate consists of both mandatory and optional units that cover essential topics in health and social care.

Key areas of study typically include:

1. Human Lifespan Development: Understanding physical, emotional, and social development across different life stages.

2. Working in Health and Social Care: Exploring the roles and responsibilities of professionals in the sector, including communication skills and teamwork.

3. Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs: Examining how to provide personalised care and support to meet diverse needs.

4. Principles of Safe Practice in Health and Social Care: Learning about health and safety regulations, safeguarding, and risk management.

You will sit a total of 2 examinations. The other units will be completed internally and throughout your learning you will be required to successfully complete assignments for each unit of learning. These assignments may include presentations, role-plays, group discussions, writing leaflets or a full report. All units are given deadlines to ensure work is completed within the timescale allowed and to conform with the Exam boards expectations.

In class, you will be involved in discussions and activities to deepen understanding of issues and arguments. In lessons students will complete timed assessments on the topics which they have been taught with regular termly feedback being given. We also get students to complete regular retrieval quizzes which are there to test student retrieval and increase their retention of knowledge.

The admissions criteria for the Sixth Form are as follows:

- A minimum of 6 separately identifiable GCSE subjects (or equivalent) at an average grade of 5.5 or above

- These 6 subjects must include at least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and at least a grade 4 in Mathematics

- To study this course: Preferred: English (any) or Biology Grade 5 Minimum: English (any) or Biology Grade 4

The Pearson Level 3 BTEC National Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care provides students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to succeed in the health and social care sector. With a focus on real-world applications and a variety of career pathways, this qualification prepares students for further education or entry-level roles in a rewarding and dynamic field. To be successful in this qualification you need to have a good level of organisation and motivation to understand the health and social care fields as this will be key to helping you pass all of the units.