Intent Statement

Students will deepen their knowledge of the complexities of supporting individuals in the health and social care sector, through discussions of how professionals apply legislation to daily practice, exploring strategies used to promote health and wellbeing, and interrogating the meaning of person-centred care.

At KS5, students will:

• Gain practical experiences of supporting individuals with health and hocial care needs in order to support their understanding of the care and support required for individuals with additional needs;
• Learn about relevant guidance and legislation which impacts on the delivery of healthcare and of social care within England, in order to deepen their knowledge of the processes that shape daily interactions.
• Deepen their knowledge and understanding of the impact of our society on the health and wellbeing of different groups within society.
• Develop independent enquiry skills in order to find out about current issues and research within sector.
• Further develop writing skills to produce extended pieces of written coursework, which includes deeper analysis and evaluation of the issue in question.

Department Information

The Department of Health and Social Care at King James has had tremendous success with students completing both Level 2 and Level 3 courses. It has enabled students to work in the Health and Social Care Sector of employment or to continue their studies at University. Students have gone on from Health & Social care to work in the Care Sector, Early Years, Education, and the NHS to list a few.

We have developed firm relationships with local organisations who offer work placements and guest speakers to enhance what is learned in the classroom environment. This provides students with an excellent insight into how their learning can be applied in the ‘Real World’.

Within the course at both levels 2 and 3, students develop a breadth of knowledge about how humans develop across the course of their life and of different Social, Environmental, Genetic and Personal factors that impact upon Development, Health and Wellbeing.  Students also develop knowledge and practical skills which relate to the working sectors of Healthcare and Social Care.

Key Stage 5

At Key Stage 5, students can opt to study the OCR Cambridge Advanced National (AAQ) in Health and Social Care. The course is offered in the form of the Extended Certificate, requiring students to complete 6 units of work.

About the AAQ Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care

The qualification will help you develop skills that are relevant to the HSC sector and that prepare you for progression to university or into employment. You will develop transferable skills that can be used in both higher education and work situations, such as effective communication.

Entry requirements

Grade 4s in GCSE English Language and GCSE Biology as a minimum

Course content

Within this qualification you will learn practical, real-life skills and approaches that can be applied in practice within the HSC sector, such as: using a person-centred approach to recommend care and support; safeguarding and protecting vulnerable individuals; recommending support for individuals; creating and presenting advice and guidance based on specific needs and circumstance; creating diet and activity plans to support individuals with meal planning.

Assessment information

You will complete 6 units of work, which are individually graded and all contribute to your final grade. You will sit two examined units: Principles of Health & Social Care; and Anatomy & Physiology. Together, the exam units are worth a total of 40% of your final grade.

You will also complete four Non-Examined Assessments (coursework style): Person Centred Approach to Care; Supporting individuals with Mental Health Conditions; Supporting Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyles; and Supporting People in relation to sexual health, pregnancy and postnatal health. Together, these coursework units are worth 60% of your final grade.

Future progression 

Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work, Early Years, Education, Support Work, Dietician, Public Health Work, Counselling, Paramedic Science, Occupational Therapy

Curriculum Learning Journey