AAQ Mental Health: Individuals & Society

School Leaver

Start Date:	Duration:	Level:	Study mode:	Course Location:	Course Type:
September	2 Years	Level 3	Part-Time - Day	Bede Campus	A-Levels	Apply	Enquire

What’s it all about?

Our AAQ in Mental Health: Individual and Societies explores the factors that influence mental health and wellbeing at both individual, community and wider-society levels. Learners study the fundamentals of mental health, community and organisational support, and the importance of key factors such as the role of physical activity in promoting positive wellbeing. The qualification develops key academic skills such as critical thinking, research, communication, reflection and analysis, crucial in preparing students for higher education and the workplace. It also provides a strong foundation for future careers within psychology, mental health nursing, counselling, social work, youth support, occupational therapy and community wellbeing, supporting progression into roles that promote positive mental health and wellbeing.

What do you need to apply for the course?

You will need 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including Maths & English Language

*Course costs

Study level	Cost	Additional fees
16-18	Free	There are no costs charged to enable you to study this course, although there may be a cost associated with any external trips/visits. You will need to provide your own stationery, and you may wish to purchase core textbooks/revision guides.

How will you be assessed?

40% externally-assessed examinations and 60% internally-assessed assignments.
You will complete one externally-examined unit and one internally-assessed unit in each year of this two-year course.

Year 1:
External Exam – Unit 1: Fundamentals of Mental Health and the Individual
Internal Assignment – Unit 3: Supporting and Promoting Mental Health & Wellbeing in Organisations
Internal Assignment – Unit 4: Community-based Support for Mental Health & Wellbeing

Year 2:
External Exam – Unit 2: Mental Health, Wellbeing and Society
Internal Assignment – Unit 5: Supporting Mental Health & Wellbeing with Physical Activity

Time commitments

You will study 3 A Level (or equivalent) subjects over two years, with each subject taught for 4 hours 30 minutes per week across three separate lessons.Your timetable will be determined by your three chosen subjects.
Although you are not required to be on campus when you do not have a timetabled lesson, we strongly recommend making effective use of our learning facilities and resources during these study periods to stay on top of your work.

Modules

Modules/course content:

Unit 1: Fundamentals of Mental Health and the Individual
Explores the core concepts of mental health, including definitions, types of mental ill health, and factors that influence mental wellbeing. Learners examine how biological, psychological, and social factors interact to affect an individual’s mental health. It also looks at stigma, discrimination, and the importance of early intervention and self-awareness.

Unit 2: Mental Health, Wellbeing and Society
Focuses on the wider social and cultural influences on mental health. It examines how communities, media, economic conditions, education, and government policies impact wellbeing. Learners consider social attitudes toward mental health and the importance of creating inclusive, supportive environments that promote societal wellbeing.

Unit 3: Supporting and Promoting Mental Health & Wellbeing in Organisations
Investigates the role that organisations play in supporting mental health. Learners explore workplace wellbeing strategies, policies, and initiatives that promote a positive culture. The unit highlights leadership responsibilities, mental health awareness training, and the importance of safe, supportive working environments.

Unit 4: Community-based Support for Mental Health & Wellbeing
Examines the variety of community-based services and approaches available to support individuals’ mental health. Learners study statutory, voluntary, and informal support networks, as well as partnership working among agencies. It emphasizes community engagement, accessibility, and the role of social inclusion in recovery and wellbeing.

Unit 5: Supporting Mental Health & Wellbeing with Physical Activity
Explores the connection between physical activity and mental health. Learners investigate how exercise can prevent or alleviate mental ill health, improve mood, and enhance resilience. The unit covers practical ways to encourage participation, design inclusive activity programmes, and understand the physiological and psychological benefits of movement.

What’s next?

Studying an AAQ in Mental Health will provide an excellent foundation for progressing into higher education and diverse careers within the Health & Social Care and Health Sciences sectors. Learners can advance to university degrees such as Psychology, Mental Health Nursing, Social Work, Counselling or Health and Wellbeing. These pathways open opportunities to work in roles including mental health practitioner, wellbeing coordinator, occupational therapist, youth support worker, psychological wellbeing practitioner, health promotion specialist, community outreach officer or rehabilitation worker. Students may also pursue careers in education, public health, the charity sector or community initiatives development. Building on this qualification equips learners with the knowledge, empathy and practical understanding essential for supporting others and promoting positive mental health for individuals and across communities.