Level 2 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care 2025-26

This course is designed for those interested in developing knowledge, skills and their understanding of the caring services. The course includes work experience, which provides you with first-hand understanding of the workplace, giving you the opportunity to develop knowledge, skills and understanding, enabling you to gain employment within health and social care contexts.

Topics covered on the course include; communication in health and social care, human development, Anatomy and physiology, Safeguarding, Equality and diversity, health and social care values, the impact of nutrition and creative and therapeutic activities in health and social care.

• Carer, Care Escort
• Care Home Manager
• Child Protection Officer
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
• Counsellor
• Learning Mentor / Life Coach
• Nursing
• Occupational Therapist
• Personal Assistant
• Support Worker
• Youth Worker

... and so much more!

On successful completion of the course you may progress onto the NCFE/CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Health and Social Care.

To enrol on the course you will require three GCSEs at 3 grade or above including maths and English. Or you may also hold a level 1 in any subject and a minimum of Entry 3 maths and English. You will also require a successful reference and a clear DBS (Disclosure Barring Service).

Our entry requirements are in place to support our students in achieving the qualifications they have chosen to study. In addition to the entry requirements, all students will be regularly assessed by East Durham College at an early stage in their study programme. This is to ensure that students are enrolled onto courses which suit their abilities – following assessment, there may be occasions when students are transferred to a relevant course at a higher or lower level in order to ensure they are enrolled on to the right course for them to achieve and progress.

Entry onto any course at EDC may have entry requirements in addition to exam results; this includes but is not limited to DBS checks, references, fitness to practice and at times physical requirements to be capable of achieving the practical elements of the course without assistance. Entry onto any course at East Durham College is subject to final approval from the Assistant Principal.

All units in these qualifications are internally graded A* - D. Units will be assessed through a range of activities including written tasks, role play, verbal presentations and displays. Learners will produce a portfolio which evidences their learning and skills in the work place. You will receive assignments made up of a variety of tasks and be expected to meet deadlines for assignments.

September 2025

One year, full time.

This full time study programme courses may also be available to study on a part-time basis if you are aged 18 or over on 31st August. Please check with Student Services for more details.