HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE
We will be running this course as a single subject – the equivalent to one A Level – from September 2026 (see course info below). We will not be running this course as a triple BTEC in September 2026 any more due to the government's qualification reforms. We have a variety of alternative courses for Nursing, Midwifery, Medical and Science pathways. Find out more >
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Are you interested in a career in the Health and Social Care sector? Want a mix of practical learning (coursework) and theory (exams)? Looking for a qualification that directly develops the applied skills required for university and the workplace?
This course provides a broad foundation of knowledge and skills, focusing on the core principles and practices of the health and social care sector. Units cover a combination of human biology, human development, and professional care principles.
COURSE AT A GLANCE
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Five GCSEs Grade 4-9 (including Maths, English Language and English Literature).
SPECIFICATION:
AAQ Health and Social Care (Pearson BTEC)
Please note: entry criteria could be subject to change due to the government's Review of Qualifications Reform programme.
LENGTH:
2 Years
This subject is the equivalent to one A Level.
MORE ABOUT THIS COURSE
WHAT YOU'LL STUDY
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Unit 1 – Human Lifespan and Development: Examining the physical, intellectual, emotional, and social development across all life stages, and factors that influence health and wellbeing.
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Unit 2 – Human Biology and Health: Exploring the structure and function of the human body's systems (e.g. cardiovascular, respiratory) and the effects of common disorders on health.
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Unit 3 – Principles of Health and Social Care Practice: Developing an understanding of the core values, ethics, legislation, and policies that underpin high-quality, safe, and effective care.
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Unit 6 – Safe Environments in Health and Social Care: 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
ASSESSMENT
The AAQ structure is balanced to develop a range of skills, assessed through both external and internal methods.
- External Assessment – Approximately 50%: Formal exams or externally set tasks, assessing your core knowledge and understanding (e.g. Human Lifespan, Anatomy and Physiology).
- Internal Assessment – Approximately 50%: Coursework, including assignments, case studies, research projects, and skills demonstrations.
FUTURE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
The course is designed to equip you with the transferable skills valued by both universities and employers in the health and social care field and beyond.
Some potential career pathways include: Nursing (Adult, Child, Mental Health, Learning Disability), Social Work, Midwifery, Occupational Therapy, Paramedic Science, Public Health, Teaching/Education, and Care Management.