Overview
The OTHM Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care is an Ofqual-regulated qualification designed to equip learners with the underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills required for a career in the health and social care sector at a support worker, senior support worker or care assistant level.
The programme enables learners to demonstrate their skills by producing evidence from their work activities, to meet national occupational standards. Learners acquire skills to support a role in the health and social care sector or progress to further study at Level 4.
Consisting of six mandatory units totalling 60 credits, this qualification is flexible to accommodate part-time and distance learning. It is equivalent to GCE AS/A Levels and provides a recognised entry point to higher education in health and social care.
Key Facts
What will you learn
- Understand the responsibilities of a health and social care worker and apply professional standards in practice.
- Engage in personal and professional development to continuously improve skills and knowledge in health and social care.
- Apply effective communication and ethical practice principles in all aspects of health and social care work.
- Implement health, safety and wellbeing procedures to maintain safe environments for service users and colleagues.
- Deliver person-centred approaches that promote dignity, independence and individual choice in care settings.
- Handle information effectively and confidentially in line with data protection legislation and organisational policies.
- Develop the foundational competencies required for roles as a support worker, senior support worker or care assistant.
- Progress confidently to Level 4 health and social care qualifications and undergraduate study.
Entry Requirements
Educational Background
Previous Qualification: Applicants should have successfully completed a Level 2 qualification (e.g., GCSEs, Level 2 Certificate, Diploma) or hold an equivalent credential. Higher qualifications are also accepted.
OR
Relevant Experience
Candidates with over 1 year of professional experience in their respective industry are encouraged to apply, as their practical knowledge is highly valued.
Age Requirement
Applicants must be 16 years or older. This program is designed to support both recent school leavers and those with some professional experience in advancing their careers.
International applicants and their qualifications are accepted.
Step into a transformative journey at HealthSocial.Care, where you'll become part of a vibrant community of students from over 157 nationalities.
At HealthSocial.Care, we are a global family. When you join us, your qualifications are recognised and accepted, making you a valued member of our diverse, internationally connected community.
Unit details
Total: 6 units · 60 credits · Awarded by OTHM
Unit 1: Responsibilities of a Health and Social Care Worker
10 credits
Understand the scope of the health and social care worker role, professional standards, accountability and working relationships within the sector.
Unit 2: Personal and Professional Development in Health and Social Care
10 credits
Engage in reflective practice and continuing professional development to enhance skills and knowledge in health and social care.
Unit 3: Effective Communication and Ethical Practice in Health and Social Care
10 credits
Develop effective communication skills and apply ethical frameworks in health and social care professional practice.
Unit 4: Health, Safety and Wellbeing in Health and Social Care Settings
10 credits
Implement health and safety legislation and risk management principles to maintain safe and healthy care environments.
Unit 5: Person-centred Approaches in Health and Social Care Settings
10 credits
Apply person-centred values to deliver dignified, individualised care that promotes autonomy and wellbeing.
Unit 6: Effective Handling of Information in Health and Social Care Settings
10 credits
Apply data protection and confidentiality principles when recording, storing and sharing information in care settings.
Fee and Payment Plans
30 to 40% Cheaper than most Universities and Colleges
Duration & course fee
The programme is available in two duration modes:
6 Months (Accelerated mode / Fast-track): GBP £1,250
9 Months (Standard mode): GBP £950
This programme does not have any additional costs.
The fee is payable in monthly or quarterly instalments.
You can avail 5% discount if you pay the full fee upfront in 1 instalment
Payment plans
6 Months - GBP £1,250
- Payment option (a) - GBP £416 x 3 monthly instalments
- Payment option (b) - GBP £1,187.50 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)
9 Months - GBP £950
- Payment option (c) - GBP £190 x 5 monthly instalments
- Payment option (d) - GBP £475 x 2 quarterly instalments
- Payment option (e) - GBP £902.50 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)
What Our Students Say
Emma Thompson
Level 4 Diploma in Health and Social Care Management
"Very practical and relevant course content. The case studies and real-world examples helped me understand complex concepts easily. Good value for investment."
Mary O'Brien
Infection Control in Care Settings
"Excellent course that provided exactly what I needed for career advancement. The practical skills learned have been invaluable in my daily work."
Fatima Al-Rashid
Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care
"Very well-structured course with relevant content. The online platform was user-friendly and the response time from instructors was impressive. Helped me advance in my healthcare career."
Nina Kowalski
Dementia Care Awareness
"Exceptional learning experience! The course content was relevant and up-to-date. The flexibility of online learning allowed me to study at my own pace. Highly recommended!"
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Educational Background:
Previous Qualification: Applicants should have successfully completed a Level 2 qualification (e.g., GCSEs, Level 2 Certificate, Diploma) or hold an equivalent credential. Higher qualifications are also accepted.
OR
Relevant Experience: Candidates with over 1 year of professional experience in their respective industry are encouraged to apply, as their practical knowledge is highly valued.
Age Requirement: Applicants must be 16 years or older. This program is designed to support both recent school leavers and those with some professional experience in advancing their careers.
The Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care is available in two duration modes:
- 6 Months — Accelerated / Fast-track mode: Ideal for learners who wish to complete the programme quickly with a more intensive study schedule.
- 9 Months — Standard mode: Designed for learners who prefer a more flexible, self-paced approach while balancing work and personal commitments.
Both modes are fully online and assignment-based — no exams required.
Yes. The Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Health and Social Care is awarded and accredited by OTHM, a recognised UK awarding organisation. The qualification is regulated and appears on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), ensuring it is widely recognised by employers and higher education institutions across the UK and internationally.
✅ The programme is offered fully online. It comes with comprehensive, easy-to-follow study materials designed to make learning simple and engaging, plus tutor support via live chat / email.
✅ The programme offers ultimate flexibility — you can study at your own pace and your own time, without disrupting your work or personal life.
❇ The programme is assignment based — no exams.
Yes. The course is offered fully online. It comes with comprehensive study materials, tutor support, and the flexibility to study anywhere, at any time. There are no fixed class times — you progress at your own pace.
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Duration & course fee
The programme is available in two duration modes:
What's Included:
- ✓ Comprehensive course materials
- ✓ Digital Certificate
- ✓ No Exams, Just Online Quizzes
- ✓ 24/7 automated self-service support
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