Learners will study how people grow and develop over the course of their lives from infancy to old age, and the factors that may affect this, such as major life events like marriage or parenthood.  Learners will analyse this impact from a positive and negative viewpoint, demonstrating empathy.  They may apply this to a person of their choice.  Learners will understand how people adapt to these changes and the local and national health and social care support that is available to them.  Learners will also research health and social care services in their local community.  They will look at how people access the local health and social care services provided and the support that is given in the local community.  Learners will be given the opportunity to demonstrate and apply the key care values to scenarios.  Learners will develop skills in measuring and interpreting data about someone’s physiological health to design a care plan that will allow them to analyse and improve their health and wellbeing.  Overall, learners should be given the opportunity to self-reflect about choices they make and how they affect others.

Learners will also benefit from guest speakers from their local community and beyond.  Learners may be given the opportunity to visit and take part in work experience in a variety of setting such as pre-schools, primary schools and nursing homes.  It will also be an intention to raise student aspirations by developing key links with universities for all students.   Learners will also be able to draw on the knowledge and skills acquired from other GCSE subjects where relevant. Learners can use the knowledge and skills from GCSEs generally, giving them the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge to everyday and work contexts. It does not limit progression options because the skills acquired are applicable to a range of future pathways.