Health & Social Care

Health and Social Care provides pupils with the opportunity to understand the factors that influence human growth, development and wellbeing throughout life. The course enables pupils to explore how physical, intellectual, emotional and social development can be affected by a range of positive and negative influences, helping them understand how these factors shape people's experiences and life outcomes.

Through the study of Health and Social Care, pupils develop an understanding of the different life stages individuals experience and the challenges and opportunities that may arise throughout life. They explore a range of health conditions and investigate how health and social care services support individuals to achieve positive outcomes and improve their quality of life.

The curriculum encourages pupils to think critically about health and wellbeing, examining how lifestyle choices, relationships, environments and wider social factors can affect physical and mental health. Pupils learn how to create health and wellbeing plans, identify barriers to positive outcomes and consider strategies to support individuals in overcoming these challenges.

A strong emphasis is placed on the development of care values and professional behaviours. Pupils explore the importance of dignity, respect, empathy and person-centred care whilst developing an understanding of how professionals work effectively within a variety of health and social care settings.

Through case studies, practical activities and independent research, pupils investigate real-life scenarios and develop skills that are relevant to both further education and future employment. The course encourages pupils to broaden their perspectives, consider the experiences of others and develop a deeper understanding of the social, emotional and environmental factors that affect people's lives.

By exploring topics such as health, wellbeing, safeguarding, mental health, illness, addiction and support services, pupils develop greater awareness of contemporary issues and the support available within society.

Aims of the EA Horizons Health and Social Care Curriculum (Years 10 and 11)

In Health and Social Care, we believe pupils deserve a curriculum that prepares them for a wide range of further education and career opportunities by providing them with the knowledge, understanding and skills needed within the health and social care sector.

Our curriculum ensures that every pupil has opportunities to:

• Develop the skills needed to interpret information and evaluate an individual's health and wellbeing.

• Understand how effective health and social care practices support positive outcomes for individuals and communities.

• Design and evaluate health and wellbeing improvement plans that respond to an individual's needs and circumstances.

• Develop an understanding of the core care values that underpin professional practice and learn how these values are applied in different care settings.

• Explore human growth and development across the life span and understand the factors that can influence development.

• Gain knowledge of the range of health and social care services available and the support they provide to individuals with different needs.

• Examine how lifestyle choices, social influences and environmental factors impact health and wellbeing.

• Develop practical skills including communication, research, analysis, planning and evaluation.

• Reflect critically on their own work and respond positively to feedback in order to improve outcomes and professional practice.

• Investigate career pathways within health, social care and related sectors, developing an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of professionals who work with individuals and families.

Outcomes

By the end of Year 11, pupils will have developed a secure understanding of health and social care services, human development and the factors that influence wellbeing. They will be able to apply their knowledge to realistic scenarios, evaluate information effectively and demonstrate the values and skills expected within the sector.

The course prepares pupils for progression to further education, apprenticeships and careers in areas such as health care, nursing, social work, childcare, education, counselling and other people-centred professions. Pupils leave the course with a greater awareness of the world around them and the knowledge, skills and empathy needed to support and improve the lives of others.

Subject Lead - Deborah.Forbes@excelsiornewcastle.org.uk 

Health-Social-Care-Curriculum.pdf