New Training for all the AAQS
New dates for 2026
There are new dates for events for the AAQs. There are sessions for Getting ready for internal assessment and Getting ready for external assessments.
AAQ February subject advisor update for HSC, ECD and Medical Science
February 2026 AAQ update for HSC, ECD and Medical Science
Welcome to the February update for the AAQs.
This update has information on a new Facebook group and a Guide to how to develop a mixed study programme.
New for External Assessments
Try the new BTEC external assessment overview tool
If you’re running BTEC external assessments, you want to find everything you need to know quickly and easily so that everything runs smoothly. We’ve made a new tool to help you do exactly that.
We’ve now added the ability to filter to multiple programmes at the same time, so you can export just what you need all at once.
Updated Special Consideration Form
BTEC Internal Assessments
We’ve created a new form to make applying for special considerations for internally assessed BTEC units quicker and easier.
You should make sure you save a copy and use it for all future special consideration applications for internal units.
This new form has more detailed instructions and dedicated sections for your rationale, alternative arrangements and grade profile, making it easier for you to provide the right evidence from the start and avoid any follow-up questions that delay the application.
You should submit all special considerations applications for internally assessed BTEC units by 30 June.
Reform information
Guiding you through reform with confidence
To support your planning through Level 3 reform, we have created a Health and Social Care Options Guide for post 16 provision in 2026. This guide provides a clear overview of what centres can offer in Health and Social Care from September 2026 onwards. It is designed to support educators who may be concerned about the withdrawal of large level 3 qualifications and want clarity on alternative Pearson pathways.
It includes:
- Example study programmes
- Pearson qualification options from 2026 onwards, including the T Level in Health, AAQs and smaller BTECs
- Useful links and guidance for curriculum discussions
Subject advisor
Esther Trehearn
Health and Social Care
Phone :
+44 (0) 344 463 2535
(Teaching Services team | Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm GMT)
