Curriculum intent
Health and social care at Retford Oaks Academy provides students with an understanding of how care supports individuals across their lives. We aim to develop compassionate, informed and reflective learners who can understand the needs of others and the importance of high-quality care in society.
Through a practical and engaging curriculum, students explore how health and social care services operate, the challenges individuals may face and the importance of promoting wellbeing. Alongside subject knowledge, students develop empathy, communication and critical thinking skills, preparing them for further study and careers within the sector.
Key stage 4: GCSE
At key stage 4, students can study health and social care, developing essential knowledge and transferable life skills that support both personal development and future career pathways.
This course is designed for students with a keen interest in how care is delivered and how individuals are supported through different stages of life. It encourages independence, creativity and critical thinking, while developing an understanding of real-world care settings.
Students study three key units:
- principles of care in health and social settings
- supporting individuals through life events
- health promotion campaigns
Through these units, students explore how care is delivered, how individuals are supported during significant life changes and how health and wellbeing can be promoted within communities.
This course provides a strong foundation for further study at a level in health and social care, as well as related subjects such as psychology and sociology. It also supports progression into apprenticeships and careers within a wide range of health and care professions.
Key stage 5: A level
At key stage 5, students can continue their studies through A level 3 health and social care course, which provides a practical and in-depth understanding of the sector.
Students explore a range of health and social care environments, developing knowledge of how services operate, the care provided and the expectations placed on professionals. The course uses a variety of teaching approaches, including role play, group work and discussion, encouraging active and independent learning.
Students are able to explore areas of personal interest, tailoring assignments to support their future goals. The course develops key skills such as organisation, independence and professionalism, preparing students for further education and employment.
Progression from this course can lead to higher education or careers in areas such as healthcare, nursing, social care, childcare, teaching and therapy.
Skills and personal development
Through health and social care, students develop a wide range of transferable skills that support both academic success and future careers. These include:
- communication and interpersonal skills
- empathy and understanding of others
- organisation and independence
- critical thinking and evaluation
- professionalism and responsibility
Students learn to understand and respond to the needs of individuals, developing skills that are essential within caring professions.
Enrichment opportunities
Students are given opportunities to extend their learning through case studies, role play and real-world scenarios linked to health and social care settings. These experiences help to deepen understanding and provide insight into future career pathways within the sector.
