What does this qualification cover?

The Level 2 Technical Award in Health and Social Care will enable learners to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in relation the health and social care sector. The qualification will cover:

• an introduction to the health and social care sector
• professional practice and the health and social care practitioner
• human growth and development through the life stages.

This qualification gives a broad and sufficiently in-depth base from which Level 2 learners at Stage 4 in their compulsory education can begin to make informed decisions concerning future career goals and aspirations.

Who is it suitable for?

The qualification is suitable for a range of young learners in school or in college.

What are the entry requirements?

Learners must be at least 14 years old to complete this qualification. We do not set any other entry requirements but schools or colleges may have their own guidelines.

How is this qualification structured and assessed?

To gain this qualification, learners must achieve a minimum of a Pass grade in:

• each of the 3 internal mandatory assessments (externally set, internally marked)
• the scenario based short answer examination (externally set, externally marked).

Please note: the assessment opportunities for the externally set and marked short answer examination is limited to one attempt and one further reattempt opportunity.

How is the qualification graded?

The qualification is graded Pass, Merit, or Distinction.

How long will it take to complete this qualification?

This qualification can usually be completed in two years or less.

What qualifications compliment this qualification?

Learners may wish to study the Level 2 Technical Award in Child Development and Care alongside this qualification as it serves as an introduction to child development and well-being. Both of these qualifications will provide a starting point for learners to decide whether a career in health and social care and/or child care and education is right for them.

Do you need to be working to take this qualification?

This is a knowledge-only qualification, therefore no work placement is required. Learners will be introduced to skills, attributes and behaviours applied in the sector in relation to best practice in health and social care.

What related qualifications can you progress to?

Learners will be able to progress to the next level of learning in health and social care, for example, the Technical Level 3 Certificate in Health and Social Care. Learners may also progress to an apprenticeship route in health and social care at either level 2 or level 3.

Funding for our qualifications

Find out more about funding for this and other qualifications on our funding page.

External assessment timetable

Please see the external assessment timetable for a breakdown of the assessment dates for this qualification.

Useful links

Regulations for the conduct of external assessment

Qualification specific instructions for delivery (QSID)

Flexibilities for 2022-23 awarding