The health and care sector encompasses staff involved in direct care, as well as specialists such as health scientists, technicians, support staff, supervisors and managers. Job opportunities exist in the statutory, private and voluntary provision of care services. The BTEC Level 3 National Award, Certificates and Diplomas in Health and Social Care can provide a springboard to a university degree or Foundation Degree in an appropriate vocational discipline, to BTEC HNCs and HNDs, or to employment.

The BTEC Nationals in Health and Social Care were replaced by the QCF-accredited BTEC Level 3 Certificate, Subsidiary Diploma, Diplomas and Extended Diplomas in Health and Social Care from September 2010. Find out more