Health And Social Care
The AAQ BTEC National Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care aims to provide you with a broad understanding of various aspects of the health and social care. The qualification is equivalent to one A Level and you will take this qualification alongside other A Levels and/or vocational courses. If you are interested in a career in the health sector, social care sector or teaching, you will find this course of particular benefit. It provides an insight into health and social care professions with varied and exciting links to all aspects of health and social care.
In total, you will study four units over two years. There are three mandatory units which are outlined below, plus one optional unit.
UNIT 1 : Human Lifespan and Development (externally assessed). You will examine physical, intellectual, emotional and social growth and development across the human lifespan. You will develop an understanding of the relationship of the different areas of development and the effect they have on each other.
Factors affecting human growth and development across each life stage You will explore the interaction between biological and social factors in health and wellbeing. You will develop an understanding of how these factors can positively and negatively affect an individual’s holistic growth and development.
You will examine how health care professionals work together to provide effective care. This will include promoting healthy behaviours to prevent ill-health, and the role of specific professionals and services in treating prevalent health conditions.
UNIT 2 : Human Health and Biology (externally assessed). You will examine the biological organisation of the human body into cells and tissues. You will explore and understand the structure and normal physiological functioning of key body systems and their organs.
You will examine how a range of disorders can affect various body systems, including the primary and secondary effects on those systems.
UNIT 3 : Principles of Health and Social Care. You will examine the values, care approaches and communication skills used in the health and social care sector, explore key concepts to include confidentiality, duty of care and working with vulnerable groups.
You will explore how the health and social care sector is organised, including key legislation that informs this. You will develop understanding of the use of critical thinking skills for health and social care.
Examine how social determinants affect the health status of individuals and the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion in practice
You will develop knowledge of how health outcomes can be improved and how barriers to care can be overcome.
UNIT 4 : The final unit is an optional unit (details to be confirmed)
I have really enjoyed my Health and Social Care course at Varndean as it has given me the knowledge and skills to prepare me for my future career in social work. It has been a very challenging, but also extremely interesting subject. I would really recommend it to anyone thinking of doing anything in the future related to the health and social care sector.
Charlotte Boyd, ex Hove Park
Course Essentials
Courses Available
BTEC Level 3 AAQ Extended Certificate (equivalent to 1 A Level)
How The Course is Assessed
50% external assessments (exams), 50% coursework
Career Pathways
Careers in the health, social care sectors or a progression route to continue onto a university degree in nursing, social work, teaching or counselling. It supports access to a range of HE courses if taken as part of a study programme that includes other qualifications.
Transferable Skills
Observation, teamwork, good knowledge of life stages and promoting awareness of rights, communication, respect, competency in the workplace.
Enquiries To
Cathy Davies: cjd@varndean.ac.uk
