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Health Social Care

Health & Social Care

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Course Overview

Qualification: A Level Courses

This is a BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (Alternative Academic Qualification, equivalent to 1 A level)

  • The Extended Certificate qualification in Health & Social Care uses a combination of assessment styles to give learners confidence that they can apply their knowledge to their studies. The skills developed support progression into higher education and a career in Health and Social Care.
  • The range of vocational assessments - both practical and written - mean that learners can showcase their learning and achievements to the best effect.
  • Learners will have the opportunity through vocational learning experience to interact with the health, social care and early years sectors.
  • There will be opportunities to develop knowledge of Higher Education through a variety of organised activities.
  • Learning and assessment takes a variety of formats from essay style assessments through to presentations of research. A variety of teaching methods and learning experiences will be used ranging from classroom-based activities through to visiting specialist speakers.
  • Studying for the AAQ allows you to choose two of a wide range of A level subjects alongside to support your interests and career ambitions.

An AAQ is a 2-year vocational course, equivalent to one A level. It is studied alongside two other A level courses. The units are as follows:
Unit 1 - Human Lifespan Development
Learners will cover physical, intellectual, emotional and social development across the human lifespan, and the interactions between biological and social factors in health and well-being and how health care professionals provide effective care.
Unit 2 - Human Biology and Health
Learners explore the organisation, structure and normal physiological functioning of the human body, and the effect on health of common disorders of the body systems.
Unit 3 - Principles of Health & Social Care Practice
Learners focus on the principles that underpin meeting the care and support needs of individuals, which are the foundation of all services within health and social care.
Unit 6 - Safe Environments in Health and Social Care
Learners explore the importance of safe working practices, professional responsibilities and record keeping in maintaining safe environments and quality care in line with national standards in health and social care settings.

Equivalent in size to one A Level. 4 units are studied in total, of which 3 are mandatory and 2 are externally assessed.
Mandatory content (75%)
External assessment (50%)
Examining Board – Pearson.

None.

This course is equivalent to 1 A level. On completion of this qualification you will be be able to apply directly to university to enrol on courses to become nurses, paramedics, midwives, occupational therapists and social workers for example. Please note that for some of these careers, a GCSE grade 4 or above in Science is necessary.

None.

Subjects such as Sociology, Psychology, Biology and English complement the type of study required on this course. Learners are encouraged to take voluntary work experience as part of the enrichment programme.

This information is correct for September 2025 entry.


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