A Levels - AAQ in Health and Social Care

Alternative Academic Qualifications (AAQs) offer both theoretical and practical focus, they perfectly complement A levels as a part of a mixed programme of learning, helping to bring more theoretical learning to life.

AAQs are equivalent in UCAS points to one A level, and offer vocationally-relevant learning in a specific subject area.

The qualification is designed to be taken alongside A Levels as part of a study programme and can link to learning in A Levels such as Psychology, Biology or English. It is intended for students aiming to progress into higher education as a pathway to employment.

The course specification includes a number of health-occupation and science-related units, including: Human Lifespan and Development, Human Biology and Health, Principles of Health and Social Care Practice, Health, Policy and Wellbeing, Promoting Health Education, Safe Environments in Health and Social Care

In addition to classroom-based theory lessons, you will take part in hands-on learning within our simulated “hospital ward” classroom areas. This course gives students the chance to:

• Develop an understanding of the professional values and skills expected in healthcare.

• Build strong communication and listening skills.

• Strengthen critical thinking, cultural awareness, and social intelligence.

These skills are essential when working with people of all ages and with a variety of individual needs. Opportunities to practice and develop these essential skills are built into the course throughout.

Students on the course are assessed in three ways: external assessments set by the exam board, internal assignments and projects, and synoptic tasks which are set to check how well students can bring together understanding of theory and practice.

5 GCSEs at Grade 9-4 including Maths, English and Science at Grade 5

Higher Education to study social science, healthcare science or science-based degrees.

Progression onto apprenticeships or employment at entry level within the healthcare sector.