The regular reviewing, scaffolding and building on this knowledge base is regularly revisited, developed and embedded into the learner’s knowledge base. Promoting reflection, self-evaluation and progression.
This spiral of learning continues as learners move into key stage 5, where the basic principles of human lifespan develop are backed up with a deeper theoretical, psychological and applied understanding. These areas, in addition to other key themes will be continually revisited at multiple points throughout each academic year, adding complexity and making connections to other topic and subject areas.
It is important students see how key knowledge can be transferred between the 3 key content areas of Human Lifespan Development, Working in Health & Social Care and Health & Wellbeing. This is demonstrated through application of scenario based assignments, synoptic assessment and external assessment at various points throughout each year.
We understand that a key aspect of long term memory creation requires regular recall and retrieval of key knowledge. We facilitate this through the use of frequent low stakes testing and practicing of the key vocabulary throughout a topic. We aim to ensure that the subject knowledge of health & social care staff is as up to date as possible through regular cross discipline collaboration and external opportunities. Our teachers have an inherent desire to develop their expertise as a matter of course.
There are many core skills which we will regularly revisit through each key stage building confidence and expertise in the students. They must understand how to effectively conduct research, data interpretation, planning, self-evaluation, practical skills, extended writing and applying theory to sector based scenarios. Literacy shall be regularly reinforced through encouraging students to write extended reports, short essay style responses and ensuring key vocabulary is accurately spelled and used in written work.
In addition to this it is important that we encourage students to demonstrate a creative approach to their work, develop resilience, passion and commitment to the subject in order to meet the needs of the diverse content that we demand from our students.