Course summary
This Higher National Diploma (HND) in Health and Social Care Practice is designed for individuals passionate about making a real difference in the lives of others. The course provides a blend of academic study and practical learning, preparing students for a wide range of roles in the health and social care sector or progression to degree-level study. Throughout the programme, you will explore key areas such as safeguarding, communication, mental health, public health, person-centred care, and professional practice. You’ll gain hands-on experience through work placements in real care settings, helping to build the skills and confidence needed for employment in a variety of roles, from support work to care coordination. This course is ideal for those who want to work in settings such as hospitals, care homes, community organisations, or social services. It also provides a clear progression pathway into careers such as nursing, social work, or healthcare management through further study. Studying for a HND Health and Social Care Practice, be that the Social and Community Work pathway, or Healthcare Professions pathway, will give you the opportunity to develop the practical and critical thinking skills required to progress in both your career and Higher Education. The course comprises 2 full days in college per week plus at least 225 hours of placement/work experience over each year. Additional, independent, study hours should be allowed for to complete course work. All work is assessed on a modular basis.
Modules
Law, Policy and Ethical Practice in Health and Social Care Demonstrating Professional Principles and Values in Health and Social Care Practice Mental Health and Well-being: a Whole Person Approach Fundamentals of Evidence-based Practice Social Work Principles and Introduction to Practice Applied Understanding of Human Development and Behaviour Youth and Community Work Reflective Approaches in Implementing Person-centred Practice Investigating Innovative Approaches to Practice in Social and Community Work Approaches to Assessment and Care Support Planning Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults Family Support and Intervention: Working with Children and Families Building Relationships with Individuals in Marginalised Communities Youth Justice: Gangs and Serious Youth Violence
Assessment method
The BTEC Higher Nationals in Health and Social Care Practice (2025) use a blend of internal assignments and Pearson-set assignments, assessed through written work, presentations, case studies, and practice-based tasks linked to real workplace experience. Students complete a mix of essays, reports, portfolios, and scenario-based activities, with some units requiring evidence from placements. Assessment includes both formative activities to support learning and summative assessments that determine final grades (Pass, Merit, Distinction). Overall, the qualification evaluates both theoretical understanding and practical competence in health and social care settings.
Qualified teacher status (QTS)
To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:
- Course does not award QTS
How to apply
14Jan
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
Please select a course option – you will then see the application code you need to use to apply for the course.
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
International applicants
This course is not accepting applications from Tier 4 international students.
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 64 points
A level - CCC
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - MPP
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £6100 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £6100 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £6100 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £6100 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College
Hinckley Road
Nuneaton
CV11 6BH