Health and Social Care (AAQ)


Why Health and Social Care?

The qualification is designed to be taken as part of an A Level package and can link well to other A Levels such as Psychology, Sociology, Biology, Geography or English.

This course will give you an overview of how people grow and develop at every stage of their life-course, looking in to theory around early attachments and their impact on later life, factors that impact health including various health conditions, how we age and the complications involved in that. You will develop an understanding of how the body works and the biology behind physiological body systems as well as all the core values that make a great professional involved in health and social care. It is important to be aware that the course covers some difficult subjects such as child protection, safe guarding and certain illnesses and diseases. 

Health and Social Care provides you with a foundation for careers in health care such as nursing, physiotherapy, paramedic science and occupational therapy and careers in social care such as social work, therapy and counselling. However, it also provides a clear link to many university courses and careers as it develops communication, interpersonal skills, problem solving and effective learning.

What is an AAQ?

Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Health and Social Care (Extended Certificate) this is the equivalent of a single A-Level.

BTEC Nationals are widely recognised by higher education and industry as the vocational qualification of choice at Level 3, with over 90 000 students applying for university places every year.

AAQ’s embody a student-centred approach to the curriculum, with a flexible structure ensured via a combination of assignments and examinations. They enable the holistic development of the practical, interpersonal and thinking skills required to succeed in higher education and employment.

Assessment

This qualification is assessed using external assessments (exams) and internal assessments (coursework). As the assessment is split 50/50 between exams and coursework, and you are permitted to resit the exams, this qualification is ideal for those that may find exams challenging or those that prefer coursework.

What do I need to know?

Exam board: We study Pearson BTEC-AAQ Nationals Health and Social Care (AAQ) | Pearson qualifications

Entry Requirements: You should meet the standard Sixth Form requirements 

Key Content

Human Lifespan and Development – areas of development and factors affecting growth and development, interventions and the different professionals providing care and treatment - exam

Human Biology and Health – Human body structure and systems, normal physiological functioning and the impact of common disorders - exam

Health and Social Care Practice – Core principles, values and legislation that underpin and influence health and social care, and the effect of social determinants on an individual health status - PSA

Promoting Health Education – Health education, it’s purpose and use of different approaches and models to achieve positive health outcomes

What is the work like?

You will need to be highly organised in order to complete the Pearson Set Assignments which are internally assessed (two units), and have the ability to revise well for the two external assessments. You will be adept at independent study and have the ability to take good quality relevant notes. Being empathetic and caring are desirable for the careers this course will lead you to.

Who do I contact if I have any questions?

Sophie.johnston@twynhamschool.com will be more than happy to answer any questions you have and welcome you to the subject.