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Health & Social Care (Vocational A Level)

at Tameside College, Ashton-Under-Lyne · college

Level 3A levelsAlternative Academic Qualification2 yearsFull time

What the college says

If you are interested in health, wellbeing and social care, and want to develop knowledge and practical understanding relevant to healthcare and support professions, this course offers a strong applied route into higher education and related careers. This is a Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification (AAQ) BTEC National Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care. It is designed to be studied alongside other A Level or Level 3 qualifications as part of a two-year programme and supports progression to higher education. Pearson states that the Extended Certificate has 360 guided learning hours and is intended to complement study programmes for students aiming to progress to degree-level study. Students complete four units. In the current programme, these are: * Unit 1: Human Lifespan and Development * Unit 2: Human Biology and Health * Unit 3: Principles of Health and Social Care Practice * Unit 4: Health, Policy and Wellbeing. In the specification, Units 1, 2 and 3 are mandatory, and Unit 4 is the optional unit chosen by the centre. In Human Lifespan and Development, students explore physical, intellectual, emotional and social development across the life stages and consider factors that influence development and health outcomes. In Human Biology and Health, students study the structure and function of the human body, body systems, common disorders and the effects these can have on individuals health and wellbeing. In Principles of Health and Social Care Practice, student

What you need to get on

Entry requirements for A Level courses * Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics. * A strong interest in and enthusiasm for, the subject chosen. * A willingness to commit to regular Independent Study outside of lesson time, as A Level courses require a high level of motivation, organisation and academic commitment. * An interview may be required as part of the application process. Please note: some courses have additional entry requirements.

How you are assessed

Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.

What this level means

The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.

Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?

Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.

Where it runs

  • Clarendon Sixth Form College

    Camp Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 6DF

    DaytimeClassroom based
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Start dates

  • 7 September 2026 · Ashton-under-Lyne

Who else teaches this exact qualification

Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.

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