Health & Social Care

Rationale

Health and Social Care at The John Wallis Church of England Academy introduces pupils to the ways individuals are supported at different stages of life and the principles that underpin effective care.

At Key Stage 4, pupils explore human growth and development, the factors that affect health and wellbeing, and the roles of professionals working across health, social care and early years settings. They consider how physical, emotional, intellectual and social needs can change over time and how appropriate support can improve outcomes for individuals.

The subject places strong emphasis on values such as dignity, respect, compassion, equality and person-centred care. Pupils learn to consider situations from different perspectives, apply their knowledge to realistic case studies and understand the importance of communication, safeguarding and professional responsibility.

Health and Social Care also helps pupils to develop empathy, confidence and an awareness of the wide range of careers available within the care sector, while providing a strong foundation for further study and vocational pathways.

Aims

Through Health and Social Care, pupils will:

• understand how people grow and develop across different life stages

• explore the physical, emotional, intellectual and social factors that influence wellbeing

• recognise how individual needs can vary and change over time

• understand the importance of dignity, respect, equality and person-centred care

• examine the roles and responsibilities of health and social care professionals

• apply knowledge to realistic scenarios and case studies

• develop an understanding of safeguarding and professional practice

• consider how effective communication can support positive relationships and outcomes

• explore factors that can affect access to care and support

• develop empathy and the ability to consider different perspectives

• use evidence to explain and justify appropriate forms of support

• gain an understanding of further study and career opportunities within health, social care and related professions.