AS / A2 Health & Social Care

WHY TAKE HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE?
This course has been designed to provide knowledge and understanding of this vocational area. It is an ideal qualification for those students who want a broad background in health and social care, which will allow you to progress further into Higher Education or training. The advanced double award combines well with almost all AS and A level subjects. For example, taken with science A level, it supports applications for a degree in Radiography, Nursing or Midwifery. Or, with one of a range of A levels, it supports applications for Teacher Training or Social Work.

WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF STUDY?
Units on the Advanced GCE Health and Social Care course include; understanding human behaviour, working in health and social care, effective communication, psychological perspectives, health, illness and disease and the role of exercise in maintaining health and wellbeing.

WHAT SKILLS WILL I NEED AND DEVELOP?
The course contains a balance of practical skills development and knowledge requirements, some of which will be theoretical in nature. Tutors will ensure that appropriate links between theory and practical work are made. You will take part in group work, presentations and collect a portfolio of evidence.

ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS I NEED?
You do not require any specific qualifications to take this subject, although a good grasp of English, Maths and Science will be beneficial. Depending on your future career plans you will be advised that some subjects will be required at GCSE.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
The double award in Health and Social Care comprises twelve units of study and is equivalent to two A levels. The course is assessed by two thirds coursework and one third external written examinations.

PRIESTLEY EXTRA
You will have the opportunity to take part in enrichment activities which for you will include: Sign Language and First Aid. You will also be invited to engage in a team building residential in Ambleside, and for NHS careers, a residential at a London University Hospital. There are many applied learning experiences to capture your imagination and support your career aims. There is also the opportunity for some to experience a European visit to Cyprus.

STUDENT IN PROFILE - MIKE BROADHURST
Former High School - William Beamont
Mike came to Priestley from William Beamont with 8 GCSEs including an A* in Maths and six graded at A. During his time at College, he completed A-levels in Health and Social Care, Psychology and Chemistry. Having excelled on his programmes he then moved onto study a BA Honours degree in Primary Education at Manchester Metropolitan University and a HNC/HND in Psychology.

STUDENT IN PROFILE - JAFOR MALIK
Former High School - Lymm
Jafor came to Priestley from Lymm High School with 10 GCSEs and wasn't sure which programme to tackle on his arrival at College. In the end, he opted for the A-Level (double award) in Health and Social Care and an AS in Applied Science. His success on his programme allowed him to move onto University to study a Social Work degree.