Health and Social Care

The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification (AAQ) BTEC National in Health and Social Care is designed for students who are interested in the health, social care and healthcare sectors. The qualification combines academic study with practical application and is intended to prepare students for higher education and careers within the caring professions.

What Will I Study?

Unit 1: Human Lifespan and Development

You will explore:

Physical, intellectual, emotional and social development across life stages

Factors affecting growth and development

Life events and their impact

Theories of development

Unit 2: Human Biology and Health

You will study:

Human body systems

How the body functions

Common disorders and diseases

Factors influencing health and wellbeing

Prevention and treatment of illness

Unit 3: Principles of Health and Social Care Practice

You will learn about:

Values and principles of care

Person-centred approaches

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Safeguarding and ethical practice

Communication in care settings

Unit 4 (Optional Unit)

Examples may include:

Supporting Individuals with Additional Needs

Public Health

Working in Health and Social Care

Other specialist areas chosen by your centre

Students complete three mandatory units and one optional unit.

How Am I Assessed?

The course uses a combination of examinations and coursework-style assessments.

External Assessment (Examined)

Unit 1: Human Lifespan and Development

Unit 2: Human Biology and Health

These assessments test your understanding and ability to apply knowledge to realistic scenarios.

Internal Assessment

Unit 3: Principles of Health and Social Care Practice

Optional Unit

These units are assessed through assignments set by Pearson and completed under controlled conditions. Work may include reports, case studies, presentations and practical investigations.

Grades Available

Distinction*

Distinction

Merit

Pass

Near Pass

Unclassified

Assessment is designed to reward both knowledge and the ability to apply learning to real-life situations.

• Merit at BTEC Level 2 (if previously studied)

• Ideally a Grade 4 or above in GCSE English Language and/or GCSE English Literature

Progression Opportunities

This qualification is recognised by universities and employers and provides excellent progression routes into higher education.

University Courses

Students commonly progress to:

Nursing

Midwifery

Paramedic Science

Occupational Therapy

Physiotherapy

Social Work

Psychology

Health Studies

Public Health

Childhood Studies

Apprenticeships

Possible progression routes include:

Nursing Associate Apprenticeship

Adult Care Worker

Healthcare Support Worker

Assistant Practitioner

Public Health Practitioner

Careers

Nurse

Midwife

Social Worker

Occupational Therapist

Physiotherapist

Care Manager

Youth Worker

Healthcare Assistant

Mental Health Practitioner

Skills Developed

During the course you will develop:

Research and investigation skills

Communication and interpersonal skills

Critical thinking

Problem solving

Analytical skills

Teamwork

Independent learning

Professional and ethical awareness

These transferable skills are highly valued by universities and employers