What is the purpose of this qualification?
The purpose of this qualification is to introduce learners to the core expectations of working within the health and care sector. The qualification provides learners with the opportunity to develop essential knowledge of working safely, effectively, and inclusively in health and care settings.
The qualification is designed for learners preparing to enter the health and care workforce, as well as those already in support roles who wish to develop their knowledge and skills. It also supports learners who wish to progress to further study. Learners will gain essential insight into professional responsibilities, values‑based care, and the skills needed to contribute positively to the well-being and rights of those they support.
What skills, knowledge, or understanding does this qualification develop?
The aim of this qualification is to introduce learners to key principles and values in health and care, helping them develop the essential knowledge and skills needed for safe, person‑centred and inclusive practice.
The objectives of the qualification are to provide learners with the opportunity to:
• develop foundational knowledge relevant to safe, effective and inclusive practice in health and care
• explore key principles that underpin high quality care, including dignity, respect and person centred support
• gain insight into essential responsibilities and expectations when supporting individuals in health and care contexts
• build awareness of the skills and behaviours that contribute to positive experiences and outcomes for those receiving care
How is this qualification different from other, similar qualifications?
This qualification is part of a suite which includes an Award, Certificate and Diploma. Learners should take the Award if they need only a small amount of focused learning in health and care before progressing to employment (with further training where possible) or to a Level 3 qualification, as illustrated in the target learner profiles provided.
Which sector does this qualification support?
This qualification could lead to a number of roles in health and social care such as healthcare assistant, community care worker, older people support worker.
What are the progression options?
Learners can progress to a Level 3 certificate or diploma in Health and Social Care in any of the available pathways, including Tech level qualifications, Access to Higher Education Diploma in Health and Social Care or Early Years, or to an advanced Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care in any of the available pathways.
Progression & entry requirements
There are no specific prior skills/knowledge learners must have for this qualification; however, learners will benefit from having English and Maths skills at level 1.
On completion of this qualification, learners will be equipped with a range of introductory skills, as well as core knowledge, relevant to health and care.
Successful completion of the Gateway Qualifications Level 2 Award in Health and Care could allow learners to progress to:
• Level 2 Certificate/Diploma in Health and Care
• level 3 qualifications in Health and Social Care
• Access to Higher Education Diploma in Health and Social Care or Early Years
• apprenticeships in Health and Social Care
• employment roles in Health and Social Care, for example, Healthcare Assistant, Community Care Worker
A full, in-depth careers information, advice, and guidance session should be completed for learners before, during, and after the completion of learning, finding them the most appropriate progression pathways unique to them and based on their abilities and aspirations.
