Wellbeing pathway – Care, Early Childhood and Mental Health AAQs

• Perfect for school leavers ready to start a meaningful career
• Gain qualifications that are respected by employers and universities
• Develop practical skills to work with people of all ages and backgrounds
• Explore pathways into nursing, social work, counselling, psychology, youth work, early years, and more

What You’ll Gain

• In-depth understanding of mental health and wellbeing
• Practical skills for working with diverse individuals and communities
• Insight into child development and early intervention
• Preparation for university study or careers in nursing, social work, counselling, psychology, youth work, early years, and related fields

This programme is ideal for students who are empathetic, motivated, and eager to build a meaningful career supporting the well-being of others.

Health & Social Care L3 Extended Certificate (AAQ) – Year 1/2

Students will learn:

• Human development across the lifespan – How people grow and change from infancy to older age.
• Person-centred care – How to meet the individual needs of people while respecting dignity and choice.
• Safeguarding and protection – Identifying risks and promoting safety for vulnerable individuals.
• Equality and diversity – Understanding how to provide inclusive care and challenge discrimination.
• Health and social care in practice – How to support individuals in different care settings, from hospitals to community services.

Mental Health: Individuals and Society L3 Extended Certificate (AAQ) – Year 1/2

Students will learn:

• Understanding mental health – Key concepts, mental health conditions, and psychological theories.
• Mental health in society – How culture, policy, and social factors affect mental wellbeing.
• Stigma and discrimination – Identifying and addressing myths and negative attitudes toward mental health.
• Supporting wellbeing – Strategies to promote positive mental health for individuals and communities.
• Practical applications – Case studies and examples of interventions in health, social care, and community settings.

Early Childhood Development L3 Extended Certificate – Year 1/2

Students will learn:

• Child development from birth to 5 years – How babies and young children grow physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively.
• Observation and assessment skills – How to monitor children’s development and identify any additional needs.
• Supporting wellbeing and learning – Techniques to promote positive behaviour, emotional resilience, and early learning outcomes.
• Health, safety, and safeguarding – Ensuring children are safe, healthy, and protected in all early years settings.
• Early intervention – Recognising developmental delays or difficulties and knowing how to support children and families.
• Communication and relationships – Building positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues in childcare settings.
• Planning activities – Designing play-based learning and development activities that meet children’s needs and interests.

5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above – Including Maths and English

AAQ qualifications are designed to combine practical understanding and theoretical knowledge, so students are assessed mainly through coursework and assignments.

Assessments may include:

• Exams
• Portfolio building
• Practicals
• Research tasks

Future courses:

• Foundation Degree in Inclusive Education
• BA Hons in Early Childhood Studies
• Foundation Degree / BA Hons in Health and Social Care
• Counselling pathway courses

Future employment:

Careers in health, social care, counselling, youth work, early years, and related wellbeing professions.

You may be asked to purchase a text book and placement uniform.