Health and Social Care
To work in health and social care is to support and improve the lives of others. To study it is to understand the key principles and responsibilities that ensure individuals receive the care, dignity, and respect they deserve. Health and Social Care at Copleston is a subject growing in popularity, reflecting its increasing relevance in today’s society. Students explore how people develop across the lifespan, how to communicate effectively in care settings, and how to respond to individual needs with compassion and professionalism. The course also enables students to develop a strong understanding of the human body, physical and mental health, and the laws and legislation that underpin safe and ethical practice. With over 3 million people employed across the health, social care, and childcare sectors in the UK, this is one of the largest and most vital areas of employment—making it a highly worthwhile and future-focused subject to study. With strong links to real-world practice and a focus on both academic and vocational skills, Health and Social Care is a powerful first step toward a future where you can truly make a difference.
Curriculum Map
The topics we study are outlined in our curriculum maps:
Level 3 AAQ health and Social Care Curriculum Map - 2025 cohort
Level 3 Legacy specification to conclude in 2026 - curriculum map
How will the course be assessed?
OCR Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification (AAQ) Cambridge Advanced National in Health and Social Care (Extended Certificate)
NEA (Non-Exam Assessment) Units
Feedback: All students will receive feedback on their NEA units prior to final submission.
Marking:
- Formally marked by the teacher.
- Externally moderated by OCR.
Assessment Opportunities
Students are allowed two attempts at both:
- Externally assessed exams
- NEA units
Informal Assessment
In addition to formal assessments, students will be informally assessed at various points throughout the academic year.
Assessment Timeline
Year 12
October: Assessment 1 – Anatomy and Physiology
December: Mock Exam 1- Anatomy and Physiology
January: Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care – 22% Exam
March: Supporting People with Mental Health Conditions – 14% NEA
July: Supporting Health, Nutrition and Lifestyle – 14% NEA
Year 13
November: Assessment 1 – Principles of Health and Social Care
January: Person-Centred Approach to Care – 14% NEA
February: Mock Exam 1 – Person-Centred Approach to Care
April: Supporting People in Relation to Sexual Health, Pregnancy and Postnatal Health – 14% NEA
May: Mock Exam 2 – Person-Centred Approach to Care
May: Principles of Health and Social Care – 22% Exam
Level 3 Cambridge Technical Health and Social Care Level 3 (2016) – due to conclude in 2026
NEA (Non-Exam Assessment) Units
Feedback: All students will receive feedback on their NEA units prior to final submission.
Marking:
- Formally marked by the teacher.
- Externally moderated by OCR.
Assessment Opportunities
Students are allowed two attempts at both:
- Externally assessed exams
- NEA units
Informal Assessment
In addition to formal assessments, students will be informally assessed at various points throughout the academic year.
Assessment Timeline
Year 13
September: Assessment 1 – Anatomy and Physiology
October: Nutrition for Health- 9% NEA
November: Mock Exam 1-Anatomy and Physiology
December: Supporting people with mental health conditions-16.5% NEA
January: Anatomy and Physiology- 25% Exam
February: Mock 1 (Equality and Diversity)
March: Building Positive Relationships in Health and Social Care- 16.5% NEA
May: Mock 2 (Equality and Diversity)
May: Equality and Diversity- 16.5% Exam
In the Future
Studying Health and Social Care at sixth form opens the door to a wide range of exciting and meaningful career paths. The course provides a strong foundation in human development, health and wellbeing, and the professional standards required in care settings—making it an ideal stepping stone for further study at university or through apprenticeships. Students gain valuable insight into both physical and mental health, as well as the legal and ethical frameworks that guide professional practice. This knowledge can lead to careers in areas such as occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, mental health support, teaching, physiotherapy, nutrition, midwifery, social work, child psychology, youth work, and early years education. Many students go on to study degrees in Health and Social Care, Nursing, Public Health, Education, Psychology, or Social Policy. Beyond the care sector, the subject also develops transferable skills such as communication, empathy, critical thinking, and teamwork—qualities that are highly valued in fields like human resources, community development, public services, counselling, and business management. Whether you’re passionate about working directly with people or supporting communities in broader ways, Health and Social Care equips you with the skills, understanding, and confidence to pursue a future where you can make a real difference.
