Health & Social Care
Our curriculum is designed to foster scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of scientific principles. Through hands-on experiments, investigations, and scientific inquiry, students will delve into the realms of biology, chemistry, physics, and beyond.
Our curriculum emphasizes the development of scientific skills, such as observation, experimentation, data analysis, and scientific communication. Students will explore the interconnectedness of scientific concepts, understand the scientific method, and engage in problem-solving activities. Our dedicated faculty, equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, guides students in conducting experiments, making observations, and drawing meaningful conclusions. By nurturing a scientific mindset and promoting scientific literacy, we aim to empower students to become informed citizens who can critically evaluate scientific information and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge.
What makes a good student of Health and Social Care?
- Demonstrates a genuine curiosity and enthusiasm for scientific exploration.
- Possesses strong critical thinking and analytical skills, able to evaluate and interpret scientific data and information.
- Shows excellent problem-solving abilities, applying scientific principles to investigate and solve scientific challenges.
- Exhibits effective communication skills, both written and oral, to explain scientific concepts and findings.
- Demonstrates meticulousness and attention to detail when conducting experiments and recording observations.
- Displays a strong understanding of scientific methods, experimental design, and data analysis.
- Shows an ability to make connections between different scientific disciplines and apply interdisciplinary knowledge.
- Demonstrates excellent organisational skills, managing time, resources, and assignments effectively in scientific investigations.
- Exhibits a growth mindset, embracing curiosity, and a willingness to learn from failures and successes in scientific endeavours.
- Shows an openness to collaboration and teamwork, valuing the contributions of peers in scientific discussions and group projects.
Key Stage 4 Curriculum
Exam Board – Pearsons BTEC
What is the course?
The BTEC Tech Award in Health and Social Care is for learners who want to acquire sector-specific applied knowledge through studying human lifespan development, health and social care services and values, and health and wellbeing. The qualification recognises the value of learning skills, knowledge and vocational attributes. The qualification will broaden learners experience and understanding of the varied progression options available to them.
What will I be taught?
The course is made up of three components which will be studied over two years. Students will be awarded a qualification by the exam board based upon the grade awarded for each individual component.
Which units will I study?
Component 1: Human Lifespan Development
Component 2: Health and Social Care Services and Values • Component 3 Health and Wellbeing
Is there a practical element?
Students will also learn how to carry out a range of observations and measurements to monitor health and wellbeing.
What skills will I learn?
The course will help students develop their ability to work effectively in a range of health, social care and early years settings. Students will be encouraged to take a holistic view of care in that they will look at improving the physical, intellectual, emotional and social well-being of their client or service user group. The ability to produce clear, concise reports is an essential element of this course.
What would be expected of me?
Full attendance is expected for this course. Learners will be expected to attend all lessons with the correct equipment demonstrating professionalism, punctuality and a high level of commitment. All tasks must be completed to set deadlines.
Is there coursework involved in this course?
Component 1 and 2 are internally assessed through the building of portfolios. Portfolios are split into assignments. Each assignment is split into tasks. Tasks are linked to grading criteria. Students can make changes based on feedback received.
Portfolio work is then externally moderated by Edexcel once a year.
Are there examinations?
Component 3: Health and Wellbeing is externally assessed through a written synoptic task. The task is completed under supervised conditions in a two-hour session within the period timetabled by Edexcel Exam Board.
How will the final grade be awarded?
An overall grade for the qualification is awarded by Edexcel based on the teacher assessment of components 1 and 2 and the external assessment of component 3.
What courses or employment can I progress to at the end of the course?
This qualification prepares you for employment and provides a good grounding to go onto Level 3 courses. Alternatively, you can go directly into apprenticeships in care and nursing homes, hospitals or nurseries. This route can lead to careers such as nursing, primary school teaching, nursery nursing, social work and residential care management.
Teaching Hours: 5 hours per fortnight
Key Stage 5 Curriculum
Health & Social Care Course Summary - Pearsons BTEC
A BTEC in Health and Social Care is a practical, work-related course. We aim to introduce you to the range of employment opportunities that are available in the Health, Social Care or Early Years work environment. This is the biggest growing employment sector in the UK, and the BTEC Nationals are designed to relate to the National Occupancy Standards for the Care Sector. During the course, you will study a range of issues related to working in the care sector and you will develop the ability to communicate your understanding in assessments. This is achieved by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations. In addition, you should have a desire to work with people and an understanding of the needs of others. Sensitivity and confidentiality are essential qualities of a care provider. Throughout the course you will be given the responsibility to work independently and the opportunity to gain skills in teamwork, problem solving and effective communication.
Course Details
Unit 1: Human lifespan development (external examinations) Unit 5: Meeting individual care & support needs
Unit 2: Working in Health & Social Care (external assessment)
Unit 14: Physiological disorders & their care
How the course is delivered
The course is unit based and each unit is given a credit value depending on the guided learning hours. At the start of each unit, you will receive an assignment brief detailing the tasks and criteria to be met. At the end of each unit, you will be given a grade of pass, merit or distinction.
Entry Requirements
Minimum of five GCSEs at Level 4 or above including English Literature or Language and Maths. Subject specific results will also be considered when choosing this course.
Teaching Time: 8 hours per fortnight
Enrichment and Extra-Curricular
To extend learning beyond the classroom, you should consider doing some of the following tasks:
- Complete courses in First Aid, CPR or other basic life support skills which will provide you with valuable practical skills.
- Carry out volunteering at a local care or nursing home to gain hands-on experience in caring for the elderly and vulnerable.
- Take time to work on your own mental health by engaging with well-being activities such as meditation or listening to personal development podcasts.
Careers
We have a wealth of information on our careers page - Please click here