The Certificate consists of two mandatory units, while the Extended Certificate consists of four mandatory units and one optional unit. NEA assignments are set by OCR, completed under the required assessment conditions, assessed by teachers and externally moderated.
Next Steps
The AAQ mental health course provides a valuable foundation for students considering further study or careers in areas related to mental health, psychology, health and social care, and community support.
The qualification develops an understanding of the factors that influence mental health and the approaches that can help individuals and communities maintain positive wellbeing. It also builds transferable skills in research, communication, evaluation, problem-solving and independent learning.
Students may wish to progress to university courses in psychology, mental health, health and social care, working within the health care sector or related subjects.
AAQ in Mental Health
What affects our mental health, how does society influence our wellbeing, and how can we support people to live healthier lives? The OCR Mental Health: Individuals and Society qualification gives students the opportunity to explore these questions through the study of mental health, individual wellbeing, social attitudes and support services.
Students will develop an understanding of the factors that influence mental health and wellbeing, how attitudes towards mental health have changed over time, and the ways individuals, organisations and communities can provide support. They will also explore practical approaches to promoting positive mental health and wellbeing.
The course combines academic knowledge with practical application, allowing students to investigate real-world issues and develop valuable skills in research, communication, problem-solving and independent learning.
In Year 12, students will begin by exploring the fundamentals of mental health and the individual. They will consider what mental health means, the factors that can influence an individual's wellbeing, and how mental health can affect people's lives. This will help them develop a foundation for understanding mental health and the different experiences individuals may have.
Students will also explore how organisations can support and promote mental health and wellbeing. They will consider the importance of positive mental health, the ways organisations can create supportive environments, and the strategies that can be used to improve wellbeing. This unit encourages students to apply their knowledge to real-world situations and consider how support can make a difference to individuals.
Year 13
In Year 13, students studying the Extended Certificate will build on their understanding by exploring the relationship between mental health, wellbeing and society. They will investigate how social attitudes towards mental health have changed over time and consider the influence of society on people's experiences and access to support.
Students will also examine community-based support for mental health and wellbeing, exploring how services and organisations can work together to support individuals and communities.
Students will also study an additional unit focusing on either supporting mental health and wellbeing through creative activities. These units allow students to investigate practical approaches to promoting wellbeing and consider how different activities can support individuals.
Throughout the course, students will develop their ability to apply knowledge to practical situations, evaluate approaches to supporting mental health and communicate their ideas effectively.
