The course builds upon all three of the sciences. It focuses on broadening your understanding of science and in the second year looks at contemporary issues in science. It is assessed through a mixture of coursework and exams (50/50 split).
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Unit 1 – Principles and Applications of Biology | Covers key concepts in Biology building on GCSE knowledge. Topics covered include plant and animal cells and tissues, including specialised cells, along with investigating biological molecules. | Exam |
| Unit 2 – Principles and Applications of Chemistry | Fundamental principles of Chemistry will be explored, expanding on GCSE knowledge, including atomic and electron structure, bonding and intermolecular forces, as well as kinetics and energetics. | Exam |
| Unit 4 – Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques | This unit includes practical activities across all three sciences. In the first year, tasks will be integrated into the Biology and Chemistry units, followed by Physics-based practicals in the second year. | Coursework |
| Second Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Unit 3 - Principles and Applications of Physics | This unit delves into essential Physics concepts, building upon GCSE knowledge, covering topics such as waves, circuits, and energy transfer. | Exam |
| Unit 6 – Contemporary Issues in Science | Current scientific issues and their impact on the world will be explored, helping to develop analytical skills across a broad spectrum of topics while examining how they are represented in the media. | Coursework |
A minimum of five GCSE subjects at grade 4 or above. This course is specifically for those wishing to study a broad science course at A Level standard, therefore the entry requirements are a grade 4 in GCSE Science together with a grade 4 in GCSE Maths and English.
First Year Unit Assessment Proportion:
| First Year | |
|---|---|
| Unit 1 | Principles and applications of science 90 minute exam in June 25% |
| Unit 2 | Practical scientific procedures and techniques Internal assignment 25% |
If you choose to leave the course in the first year you can achieve a BTEC National Level 3 Certificate in Applied Science (equivalent to ½ A-level).
| Second Year | |
|---|---|
| Unit 3 | Science investigation skills Task based (practical) exam in June 33.3% |
| Unit 12 | Diseases and infections Internal assignment 16.6% |
After the second year you will have achieved a BTEC National Level 3 Certificate in Applied Science (equivalent to 1 A-level).
A thorough knowledge of GCSE Science to a higher level allows you to progress smoothly onto the course. It is suggested that you use a GCSE textbook or an Access guide e.g. ‘Mind the Gap’ if you feel that your knowledge is not up to standard.
The BTEC National Level 3 Extended Certificate will provide the opportunity to
develop your skills in numeracy, scientific communication and as well as improving your study, presentation and research skills.
The Chemistry Department is housed in two large airy well-equipped recently refurbished laboratories. The labs are fitted with up-to-date visual aids equipment as well as a suite of laptops for use in the lab.
The staff are enthusiastic and knowledgeable; they are unstinting in their support of students.
There are about 45 students in Applied Science across the two year groups. Our results have been consistently above national averages.
The teaching is done using a variety of approaches designed to suit different abilities and learning styles.
The requirements of the qualification are such that students will develop transferable skills which are valued by both higher education and employers.
The qualification can be taken with many other subjects leaving many progression routes open. An ever-increasing number of degree-related courses are now available to extend your understanding and operation of science.
Students could go straight into employment as they will develop analytical and processing skills valued by many, both inside and outside the Science Industry.