Health and Social care gives an insight into the different Health and Social care professions and services. Students will gain knowledge, understanding and skills that are at the foundation for working in this area.

The subject introduces students to the physical, intellectual, emotional and social factors that can affect individuals. The students then begin to understand the complex needs and services that are required to help individuals in a holistic way.

Health and Social Care is linked to the sciences. The students will learn the ways that the body works and functions. There are also links to maths through reading of charts and data, which encompasses much of the health side of the NHS.

Good skills in grammar and comprehension will allow students to produce high level coursework as well as the ability to work independently. Across the curriculum students will also learn empathy, sharing and how to help and support others which is a vital component when applying for a Health and Social Care profession.

Edexcel is the exam board used in both level 2 and level 2 Health and Social Care. The course consists of three units, 2 are internal and there is one external exam which is over 2 hours and is taken at the beginning of February, or retaken in May.

Unit 1 in year 1 is all about lifespan and development where students can use a family or friend and explain how they have grown and developed over three life stages, and discuss how different factors in their lives have changed them as an individual.

As they move into unit 2 the students will expand their knowledge to the different services and support that is required in the Health and Social sector; they will consider the different factors that are potential barriers to gaining access to these services and finally  overcoming these barriers to access the services they need.

Health and Social care can be taken at level three as an Extended Certificate, which is the equivalent to an A level. Students will be required to complete 2 pieces of coursework and undertake 2 exams over the course of 2 years.

At Level 3 students will cover anti-discriminatory practice, equality, additional needs, working within the NHS and development of individuals.

Students applying to University can use their qualification towards many professions such as Midwifery, Police, Firefighter, Teacher, Counselor etc.