Health and Social Care
Course Information - Pearson Level 3 AAQ BTEC National in Health and Social Care (extended certificate)
This is the equivalent of a single A-level
Do you want to make a difference in people’s lives? Are you interested in careers in health, social work, or early years education? The BTEC Level 3 AAQ in Health and Social Care provides a practical and applied route into these rewarding professions. You’ll gain knowledge of human development, health and wellbeing, and the principles of care, alongside developing essential skills for working in health and social care settings.
What will you study?
The course covers a range of topics, including:
- Human growth and lifespan development
- Human Biology and health
- Principles of health and social care practice – eg working in health and social care, Psychological and sociological perspectives
- Health science
This qualification combines classroom learning with applied tasks, giving you the opportunity to develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills.
Complementary Subjects
Health and Social Care works well alongside subjects such as Biology, Psychology, Sociology, and Sport. It is ideal for students considering careers in health, social work, education, or related fields.
Independent Study
Students should expect to complete 4–5 hours of independent study per week, in addition to lessons.
Entry Criteria
You will need:
- At least grade 4 in GCSE English and Maths
- A strong interest in health, care, and wellbeing
Assessment
The BTEC Level 3 AAQ is assessed through a combination of:
- 50% Externally assessed exams for units 1 and 2
- 50% Internally assessed coursework for units 3 and 7
This mix of assessment methods allows you to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in different ways.
Transferable Skills
- Communication and teamwork
- Problem solving
- Research and analysis
- Empathy and resilience
What can I use this qualification for?
This course opens doors to university, apprenticeships, and employment in health and social care sectors.
Possible career paths include:
- Nursing
- Midwifery
- Social work
- Paramedic science
- Occupational therapy
- Early years education
- Health service management
