Health & Social Care (AAQ)

Applications Open: Applications are now open!

How to Apply: We don't accept applications through KentChoices - Please apply via Admissions+ using the link below:

https://leighacademylongfield.org.uk/post16/applying-for-post-16/

Health and Social Care is designed for students who want to make a genuine difference in people's lives while gaining practical skills for the modern healthcare sector. Throughout the course, you explore human growth and development across all life stages - focusing on physical, intellectual, emotional, and social needs (PIES). You will look closely at the real-life factors that affect health, from genetics and lifestyle choices to social environments, and discover how tailored care plans help individuals overcome complex challenges.

Beyond the science of development, you step into the shoes of frontline professionals to see how care is actually delivered. You will learn about equality, diversity, and rights in care settings, alongside the exact procedures nurses, social workers, and therapists use to support vulnerable individuals. Through a mix of real-world case studies, coursework, and exams, you will build essential skills in communication, problem-solving, and professional ethics - giving you a head start for degree apprenticeships, university, or direct entry into the care workforce.

The qualification has been developed in consultation with higher education representatives and sector experts to ensure students have the knowledge, understanding and skills they need to progress to, and thrive, in higher education. The qualification has four mandatory units covering the following topics:

• Unit 1: Human Lifespan and Development – Factors affecting growth and development, interventions and the different professionals providing care and treatment
• Unit 2: Human Biology and Health – Human body structure and systems, normal physiological functioning and the impact of common disorders
• Unit 3: Principles of Health and Social Care Practice – Core principles, values and legislation that underpin and influence health and social care, and the effect of social determinants on an individual health status
• One additional option unit to be determined by the academy

• Unit 1 and Unit 2 are assessed using written examinations. Both make up ~50% of the overall grade.
• Unit 3 and the additional option unit are assessed using controlled assessment. Both make up ~50% of the overall grade.

You must meet the overall requirements for Leigh Academy Longfield's post-16, and the requirements for this subject specifically. These can be found on our academy website:

https://leighacademylongfield.org.uk/post16/sixth-form-subjects/

This course is suitable for anyone who is keen to develop a career within the health and social care sector. It provides robust opportunities for learners to gain knowledge and understanding of a wide range of subject areas relating to health and social care. As well as working in traditional care settings like hospitals, residential homes, sheltered accommodation, hospices and day care centres, there are career opportunities in areas such as health education and promotion, welfare, community development and health research. The course is also an excellent foundation for those wishing to pursue further education or apprenticeships in related sectors.