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Health and Social Care
BackAcademy 360 is an all-through Academy and this page provides an overview of Health and Social Care across our Secondary phase
Here you will find information about our curriculum intent, implementation and impact for Health and Social Care, as well as how we support all pupils to succeed. This includes the strategies and adaptations we use to meet the needs of disadvantaged pupils and those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Please see below to explore Health and Social Care in more detail. This outlines how Health and Social Care is taught, developed and assessed, ensuring clear progression throughout the Secondary phase.
Curriculum Intent - Health and Social Care
At Academy 360, our Health and Social Care curriculum aims to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to succeed in the health, social care, and early years sectors. Through the OCR Cambridge National in Health and Social Care, we equip learners with a strong foundation in care values, human development, and key aspects of the industry, preparing them for future study and future careers in the essential sector. Through a blend of theoretical and practical learning, students will gain confidence in applying their knowledge to real-life situations, ensuring they leave with both the academic achievement and transferable skills necessary to succeed in further education and employment.
The structure of the Cambridge National Health and Social Care curriculum is designed to equip students with essential knowledge, skills, and understanding relevant to the health and social care sector. The core knowledge and application balances theoretical knowledge with practical application to ensure students understand real-world scenarios in health and social care settings and covers key areas such as human lifespan development, health and well-being, principles of care, and legislation, which are fundamental for those considering careers in this sector. The curriculum also has industry relevance, reflecting current professional standards and expectations in health and social care roles, ensuring students gain a strong foundation in areas like communication, safeguarding, equality, and diversity. Finally, it develops skills for further education and employment, focusing on transferable skills such as problem-solving, research, analysis, and communication that prepares students for higher education or apprenticeships in fields like nursing, social work, and public health.
There is a great need for this curriculum due to the growing demand for Health and Social Care professionals, as with an aging population and increasing demand for healthcare services, there is a national and global need for skilled professionals in this field. The curriculum prepares students for a sector that is actively seeking workers, helping to bridge the skills gap in healthcare and social care services. It is needed now more than ever due to the impact of recent global events such as the COVID-19. Finally, it fits in well with government priorities and workforce development since the curriculum supports students in developing employability skills while also meeting the criteria for further progression into Level 3 qualifications and beyond.
Contributing to our A360 Curriculum Intent
Qualifications
Students leave our academy with excellent qualifications that give them a wide range of choices and opportunities as they move into the next stage of education and adult life.
In Health and Social Care, we have recently developed our new offer so students can move into level three qualifications in the field. Units are chosen to benefit the current cohort so students get the most from the qualification.
Character Development
Students develop strong character traits that will support them to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
In Health and Social Care, character traits are developed through a combination of theoretical learning, practical application and reflective practice. The course is centred around understanding values of care, so students are taught traits such as dignity, respect and confidentiality.
Physical and Mental Health
Our students develop their physical and mental health, alongside their intellectual growth.
In Health and Social Care, students complete units of work, and specific assignments on physical and mental health, alongside intellectual growth. They are then taught about the application in real world health and social care settings.
Cultural Experiences and Opportunities
Students have access to high-quality cultural experiences and extra-curricular opportunities.
In Health and Social Care, students will complete interviews as part of their course, and be able to apply the knowledge they have learnt in lessons into a real life situation while gathering important information. Students will also have the opportunity to be part of a fair where they will proudly display some of their work.
Careers Information
Students engage with high-quality careers information and guidance across all key stages.
In Health and Social Care, students are given the opportunity to speak to current healthcare and social care professionals, such as trips out to the local colleges, and school visits by the NHS and other guest speakers.
British Values
Students have a highly developed understanding of the fundamental British Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance.
In Health and Social Care, students learn about the role of democracy in shaping health and social care policies, such as the NHS and social care systems. They also learn of different legislation, such as the Equality Act (2010) or the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974).
Protected Characteristics
Students have a strong understanding and appreciation of all protected characteristics, including race, gender, religion, disability and sexual orientation.
In Health and Social Care, the protected characteristics are a key focus of the curriculum. Students are taught age related health issues such as child development, health education through pregnancy and maternity, and cultural competency in care to name a few.