Summary

This full-time, two-year course is designed for school leavers aged 16-18.

You can continue your education through applied learning and progress to higher education courses. The qualification is wide-ranging and equivalent to one A Level, so you will complement it with two additional A levels to complete your study programme.

You can choose to study this course for one year and achieve a National Certificate. This is a popular option for students wishing to top-up as it carries equivalent credits to an AS level course.

In this course you will study:

Year 1

Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science

You will develop an understanding of key concepts relating to biology, chemistry, and physics.

Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and techniques

You are introduced to new experimental techniques, developing practical skills including accuracy and precision. You will research the background to a number of analytical and experimental techniques and learn how to calibrate laboratory equipment and use common analytical techniques.

Year 2

Unit 3: Science investigation skills

You will cover the stages involved and the skills needed in planning a scientific investigation: how to record, interpret, draw scientific conclusions and evaluate.

Year 2

Unit 11: Genetic and Genetic Modification

This unit will provide a basis for progression in the fields of medical, veterinary science, agricultural, industrial or forensic science. Learners will study the basis of life itself. They will gain an understanding of the structure of DNA, cell division and the principles of Mendelian genetics and variation.

How will I know how I am doing?

Year 1

• X3 written exams (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics)
• X4 coursework assignments

Year 2

• X1 3 hour practical
• X1 written exam based on practical
• X4 coursework assignments

What do I need to join?

5 GCSE's grade 4-9 including a 5 in Maths and Science.

Work Experience

You will be required to do a minimum of 36 hours of work experience. This is usually completed in a week during your first year in term time, where you will have the opportunity to explore a career field which takes your interest. In the lead-up to this week, you will be asked to create an exciting CV during a group tutorial period. The aim of this activity is to give you an idea of what full-time employment is like and to help you think about which career you would like to follow.

What can I do next?

After successfully completing the first year of this course, you can progress onto year two or seek employment. The second year of the course offers the opportunity to gain the extended certificate, equivalent points to an A level in Science.

The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as meeting admission requirements for many relevant courses. Teamed with suitable A levels, you would be able to enter courses such as BSc (Hons) in Chemistry with Analytical Science, BSc (Hons) in biomedical science, BSc (Hons) in Forensic Science or a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Applied Science.