You will study 3 mandatory units and 1 optional unit. 50% external exams and 50% coursework.
The course provides a broad basis of study in the Health and Social Care sector.
First Year:
| Unit | Assessment | Topic |
|---|---|---|
| Unit 1 | Exam - externally assessed | Human Lifespan and Development- You will understand the patterns of human growth and development across all life stages. You will study factors that may influence development and health. You will gain knowledge of the roles of different Health and Social Care professionals in promotion, prevention and treatment of service users. |
| Unit 2 | Exam - externally assessed | Human Health and Biology- You will develop an understanding of the structure of the human body and how the body systems work together. You will also look at disorders of the body. Having a clear understanding of human biology and health is vital when working in the health and social care sector. |
Units 1 and 2 provide a grounding for the second-year units.
Second Year:
| Unit | Assessment | Topic |
|---|---|---|
| Unit 3 | Coursework- internally assessed | Principles of Health and Social Care Practice- In this unit you will develop a good understanding of the principles of proving excellent care and support. You will look at the values of the NHS, examine how organisations and legislation guide practice. Exploring equality, diversity and inclusion practice. |
| Unit 5 | Coursework- internally assessed | Promoting Health Education- In this unit you will be learning about promoting health education and developing your own health education campaign. You will be exploring local, national and international health education campaigns. As well as exploring a range of factors that may impact on upon someone's health and wellbeing. |
A minimum of five GCSE subjects at grade 4 or above, (including English, Mathematics and Science at grade 4) are required for entry onto the course.
You will be assessed through a mixture of exams and assignments. Each unit is awarded points, which are translated into an overall grade (Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*) at the end of the course.
First Year:
| Unit | Assessment | Topic | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unit 1 | 90 minute exam | Human Lifespan Development | 25% |
| Unit 2 | 90 minute exam | Human Biology and Health | 25% |
Second Year:
| Unit | Assessment | Topic | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unit 3 | Internal assignment | Principles of Health and Social Care Practice | 25% |
| Unit 5 | Internal assignment | Promoting Health Education | 25% |
After the second year, you will have achieved a Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Health and Social Care.
A background in GCSE Psychology or BTEC level 2 In Health and Social Care will help but it is not required. If possible, you can look through some GCSE Psychology or child development books to get some background on growth and development.
The most worthwhile work you can do for this course is to get experience in the sector. You could investigate getting some work experience in a care setting such as a nursery, care home or a charity that supports individuals with additional needs.
The health and social care sector comprise of two sub-sectors: health care and social care. Health care encompasses all hospital activities, medical nursing homes and GP services, for example. The social care sector includes residential nursing care, residential nursing facilities, residential care facilities, domiciliary care. Youth work and social work. Students are able to progress into work in the sector through degree programmes in nursing, midwifery, social work, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and paramedical science, for example. There are more than 300 distinct career paths in this sector.
The qualification is generally taken alongside other qualifications, as part of a two-year programme of learning, students will be able to choose a wide range of degree programmes to progress to, depending on the other subjects they have chosen.
The qualification is intended to carry UCAS points and is recognised by HE providers as contributing to meeting admission requirements to many courses. The requirements of the qualification are such that students will develop transferable skills which are valued by both higher education and employers. Students should always check entry requirements for degrees on the UCAS website.