The Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Health and Social Care, is for learners who want to acquire technical knowledge and technical skills through vocational contexts as part of their Key Stage 4 learning. The qualification recognises the value of learning skills, knowledge and vocational attributes to complement GCSEs. The qualification will broaden the learners experience and understanding of the varied progression options available to them. The Award gives learners the opportunity to develop sector-specific knowledge and skills in a practical learning environment. The main focus is on four areas of equal importance, which cover:

• The development of key skills that prove your aptitude in health and social care such as interpreting data to assess an individual’s health.

• Process that underpins effective ways of working in health and social care, such as designing a plan to improve an individual’s health and wellbeing

• Attitudes that are considered most important in health and social care, including the care values that are vitally important in the sector, and the opportunity to practise applying them

• Knowledge that underpins effective use of skills, process and attitudes in the sector such as human growth and development, health and social care services, and factors affecting people’s health and wellbeing.

This Award complements the learning in GCSE programmes such as GCSE English. It will complement the more theoretical aspects covered by GCSE Biology by allowing you to apply knowledge and skills practically in a vocational context.

Assessment is through 4 pieces of internally marked coursework and 1 external exam which lasts 2 hours.