More about our GCSE from 2009 in Health and Social Care

• We’ve retained the core content and flexible assessment structure, so you’ll be familiar with them.

• No new topics have been introduced; instead, four major topics from units 1-3 are being looked at in more depth.

• We’ve added a new unit and updated the content, bringing the qualification right up to date. The new unit (unit 4) is a synoptic unit using learners' knowledge from the previous three units.

• The choice of single or double award adds flexibility, broadening the appeal to a wider range of students. Students can do the first two units at the end of their first year and gain a single award in Health and Social Care, or they can continue and gain a double award by doing the remaining two units.

• The qualification is structured to offer high rewards for portfolio work (60% of the marks), motivating students of all abilities by enabling them to focus on project work relevant to their own interests.

• A wide range of sample assessment materials and student and teacher support is available to aid thorough exam preparation.

Read the QCA subject criteria for Health and Social Care here.