Key Facts

BTEC Level 1/2 Certificate in Health & Social Care

The Certificate introduces you to Health and Social Care and provides a good basis for progression on to a Level 3 qualification in this area and provides an introduction into topics such as Health and Wellbeing, Human Body systems and Human Lifespan Development.

As well as learning about the employment area you have chosen, you develop the skills you need to start a career including: Emotional intelligence: in order to empathise with patients and act sensitively in difficult situations that others may be facing Communication: a core skill in many professions but especially in healthcare, where staff need to communicate effectively with patients and their families as well as with co-workers Teamwork: needed to work with colleagues for the good of a patient and this might mean taking on extra tasks and responsibilities Time management: when lives are at risk, it's crucial to prioritise what's important and the nature of the profession also means that you will often be pulled in different directions

In addition to this, learners will also study either GCSE or Functional Skills English and Mathematics depending on their grades.

  • Entry Requirements


    We will invite you to a Meet the Tutor event where you will receive information, advice, and guidance about the course you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

    You will provide a copy of your last school report and / or a reference from an employer or relevant professional other. This is to ensure we can support you to be able to achieve well on the course.

    1 x GCSE at 4 or above and 3 x GCSE's at 3 or above, or a full Level 1 qualification in a relevant subject.

    Your GCSE profile must include Maths and English , or a Functional Skills qualification in Maths and English.

    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


    Students will study a range of units and a variety of assessment methods will be used including case studies and presentations. Units studied include:

    Human Lifespan Development Promoting Health and Wellbeing The Impact of Nutrition on Health and Wellbeing Health & Social Care Values Effective Communication Human Body Systems and Care of Disorders Healthy Living

    You will also undertake a period of compulsory work placement.

  • Progression Next Steps


    The Pearson BTEC Level 2 Certificate is equivalent to two GCSEs and the course is studied along with resits of GCSE Maths and English (as needed). The achievement of both the Certificate and GCSE will enable you to progress onto a Level 3 course in Health & Social Care. You may also consider further training or study in related fields such as Social Care, an Apprenticeship or employment.

    There are lots of opportunities available to you to progress across the South Thames Colleges Group and into the world beyond education.

    During your time with us you will have access to a dedicated team of careers and education advisors who will help you as you take the next steps towards achieving your goals.

  • Additional Information


    This is a full time course. Students under 19 do not pay tuition fees. You may find it useful to read 'BTEC First in Health & Social Care Student Book (BTEC First Health & Social Care)' by Heather Higgins, Sian Lavers, Penelope Garnham & Elizabeth Hanworth (Pearson Education) prior to commencing the course. For more information please contact our Admissions Team on 020 8268 3073 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Assessment Details


    Study Areas:

    Students must complete all units. All units are assessed, graded and an overall grade for the qualification is awarded.