AS/A Level Health & Social Care
Subject Staff: Jos Cowley; Liz Henry; Sarah Murray (Head of Subject); Ruth Oates; Ariane Swart
- Level: AS/A Level
- Duration: 2 years
Why should I choose this course?
- I am considering a career in one of the caring professions
- I want to develop practical, transferable skills in communication and research as well as a broad understanding of health, social care and early years services
- I enjoy completing coursework
What does the course consist of?
- Health & Social Care can be studied as a Single Award covering 6 units over 2 years (equivalent to one A-level) or Double Award covering 12 units over 2 years (equivalent to two A-levels)
- A 9-unit qualification (Advanced GCE with Advanced Subsidiary Additional) is also offered, equivalent to one and a half A-levels
- Looking at what affects people’s health and well-being
- Looking at how the health and social care services meet users’ needs
- Looking at what is needed to provide high quality services
- Aspects of biology, sociology, psychology and health
- You go on a short placement in your first year in a care setting of your choosing
What are the entry requirements?
- At least 5 A* to C passes at GCSE
- Due to the portfolio nature of the course, a C or above in English is highly recommended
- NOTE - If you are considering a career in nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, radiography or occupational therapy, a C or above in Science at GCSE is needed for entry to these courses at university
How is this course assessed?
- Two-thirds of the course is assessed by portfolio work
- One-third of the course is assessed by a written one and a half-hour exam which requires you to apply your knowledge to case study scenarios
What might this course lead on to?
- Careers within the Health & Social Care field, including nursing, social work, youth work, counselling, mental health, early years and many more