Frequently Asked Questions


Q. Are there any prohibited combinations for this award?

A. No, there are no prohibited combinations for this award.

Q: What grades can students gain through studying this specification?

A: We award GCSE qualifications on an eight grade scale from A*–G, with A* being the highest. For students who fail to attain a grade G, we report their results as unclassified (U).

We report the results of individual assessment units on a uniform mark scale that reflects the assessment weighting of each unit. We determine the grades awarded by aggregating the uniform marks obtained on individual assessment units.

Q: Are students assessed on the quality of their written communication?

A: Yes, in GCSE Health and Social Care (Single Award) students must demonstrate the quality of their written communication. In particular, they must:

  • ensure that text is legible and that spelling, punctuation and grammar are accurate so that meaning is clear;
  • select and use a form and style of writing appropriate to their purpose and to complex subject matter; and
  • organise information clearly and coherently, using specialist vocabulary where appropriate.

Examiners assess the quality of students’ written communication in their responses to examination questions or tasks that require extended writing. The quality of written communication is assessed within all assessment objectives and assessment components in this specification.

Q: What Key Skills can students gain by following this course?

A: This specification provides opportunities for students to develop the following Key Skills:

  • Application of Number;
  • Communication;
  • Improving Own Learning and Performance;
  • Information and Communications Technology;
  • Problem-Solving; and
  • Working with Others.