The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Paediatric Surgery (Dip PS) is a specialised qualification designed to equip learners with foundational knowledge and practical insights into paediatric surgical care. This course explores the principles, practices, and essential skills required to understand surgical interventions in children, with a focus on safe, ethical, and evidence-based practice. It is an excellent starting point for individuals looking to develop their expertise in healthcare and progress into paediatric surgery or related clinical fields.
Paediatric surgery is one of the most challenging yet rewarding fields in medicine, requiring a unique understanding of children’s anatomy, physiology, and surgical needs. The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (Dip PS) provides learners with a structured pathway to gain an in-depth understanding of paediatric surgical principles, perioperative care, and the management of common surgical conditions in children. Learners will also develop knowledge of professional practice, clinical ethics, and patient-centred care in paediatric surgical settings.
This diploma introduces learners to both theoretical and practical aspects of paediatric surgery. It covers essential topics such as surgical anatomy, operative procedures, patient safety, and post-operative care. The course also integrates elements of evidence-based practice, ethical decision-making, and effective communication with patients and families. With a focus on professional development, this programme builds the foundation required for further studies in surgery, nursing, or healthcare management.
The diploma welcomes a wide range of learners, including healthcare assistants, nursing students, paramedics, international learners pursuing UK-accredited qualifications, and individuals with a keen interest in paediatric surgical care.
After completing the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Paediatric Surgery, learners can progress to higher-level qualifications such as the Level 4 Certificate or Diploma in Surgical Practice, specialised diplomas in paediatrics, or broader healthcare management programmes. The course also serves as a valuable foundation for those wishing to pursue medical, nursing, or surgical training at advanced levels.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (Dip PS):
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (Dip PS), offers 60 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 300 hours, including 210 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credit | GLH | TQT |
| QC27153-1 | Principles of Paediatric Surgery and Child Health | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27153-2 | Surgical Anatomy and Physiology in Children | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27153-3 | Preoperative and Postoperative Management in Paediatric Surgery | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27153-4 | Common Paediatric Surgical Procedures and Conditions | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27153-5 | Evidence-Based Practice and Clinical Decision-Making in Surgery | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27153-6 | Professionalism, Ethics, and Patient-Centred Care in Paediatric Surgery | 10 | 35 | 50 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (Dip PS):
To enrol on the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (Dip PS), learners must meet the following entry requirements:
Minimum Age
- Applicants must be at least 16 years old at the time of enrolment.
Educational Background
- A Level 2 qualification or equivalent in healthcare, biology, or a related field is recommended. Applicants with a strong interest in healthcare but without formal qualifications may also be considered.
Experience
- No prior surgical or medical experience is required. However, previous exposure to healthcare settings or studies in biology, nursing, or allied health sciences will be an advantage.
Language Proficiency
- Learners must demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency to engage with academic materials, complete assessments, and communicate effectively in a healthcare environment. This may be evidenced through prior education in English or an equivalent recognised language qualification.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (Dip PS):
Principles of Paediatric Surgery and Child Health
- Understand the fundamental principles and scope of paediatric surgery
- Explain child growth, development, and how it influences surgical care
- Recognise the importance of holistic, family-centred care in paediatric surgery
- Apply basic concepts of patient safety in paediatric surgical environments
Surgical Anatomy and Physiology in Children
- Demonstrate knowledge of paediatric anatomical structures and their differences from adults
- Understand physiological variations in children relevant to surgery
- Identify the surgical implications of developmental anatomy
- Apply anatomical and physiological knowledge to surgical procedures and care planning
Preoperative and Postoperative Management in Paediatric Surgery
- Understand the key elements of preparing paediatric patients for surgery
- Identify potential risks and complications in preoperative assessment
- Explain principles of postoperative care, pain management, and recovery in children
- Apply knowledge of infection control and patient monitoring in surgical care
Common Paediatric Surgical Procedures and Conditions
- Recognise common surgical conditions affecting children
- Describe standard paediatric surgical procedures and techniques
- Understand the role of diagnostic tools and investigations in paediatric surgery
- Apply knowledge of treatment pathways for managing common surgical cases
Evidence-Based Practice and Clinical Decision-Making in Surgery
- Understand the principles of evidence-based practice in paediatric surgery
- Critically evaluate clinical information and research evidence
- Apply structured decision-making models to surgical care situations
- Integrate evidence-based approaches to improve patient outcomes
Professionalism, Ethics, and Patient-Centred Care in Paediatric Surgery
- Demonstrate awareness of ethical considerations in paediatric surgical practice
- Apply professional standards of conduct in healthcare environments
- Communicate effectively with children, families, and healthcare teams
- Recognise the importance of cultural sensitivity and patient-centred care
The Course is idael for ;
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Paediatric Surgery is designed for learners who wish to gain foundational knowledge and skills in paediatric surgical care. It is suitable for:
- Aspiring healthcare professionals who want to pursue a career in paediatric surgery or related medical fields
- Students seeking progression towards higher-level qualifications in surgery, paediatrics, or general medicine
- Healthcare assistants, nursing staff, or support workers who want to enhance their understanding of surgical care in children
- International learners aiming to build a recognised qualification in paediatric surgical practice
- Individuals interested in gaining a solid grounding in surgical procedures, patient care, and child health as part of their professional development
The Centre Requirements for QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (Dip PS):
Centres delivering the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Paediatric Surgery must ensure that they have the appropriate resources, facilities, and staff expertise to maintain the quality and integrity of the programme. Requirements include:
- Qualified Tutors and Assessors:
Tutors must hold relevant medical, surgical, or healthcare qualifications, with experience in paediatrics or surgery. Assessors should be competent in evaluating both theoretical and practical elements of the qualification. - Learning Resources:
Centres must provide access to up-to-date textbooks, medical journals, case studies, and online learning platforms to support learner development. - Facilities and Equipment:
Adequate classroom, laboratory, or simulation facilities should be available to deliver both the theoretical and practical aspects of paediatric surgery. Access to clinical environments or placements is recommended where possible. - Quality Assurance Systems:
Centres must implement robust internal quality assurance processes to ensure assessments are fair, consistent, and aligned with qualification standards. - Learner Support Services:
Centres should provide academic guidance, pastoral support, and career advice to learners throughout the course. - Assessment and Record-Keeping:
Clear procedures must be in place for recording learner progress, assessment outcomes, and feedback, in compliance with awarding body requirements.