Do you enjoy learning science in a practical way? Do you have a particular interest in applications of science in medicine and clinical work? This course is designed to provide a specialised work related qualification that covers biology, chemistry and physics. If you work best through practical investigations and how science affects the world, you should consider this course. An ability to carry out and analyse scientific work are skills highly respected by employers and universities.

Students will be expected to have a minimum of two GCSEs at grade 6, grade 5 in two GCSE single Science subjects or Combined Science, and GCSE grade 5 in English Language or Mathematics. The remaining grades should be no less than grade 5/4. This course may be taken alongside A Level courses and may be more suited to learners with a strong profile of prior attainment in vocational studies.

Topics you will study include: 

Year 1:

• Principles and Applications of Science I  – Biology, Chemistry and Physics
• Practical Procedures and Techniques

Year 2:

• Science Investigation Skills
     Human Regulation and Reproduction

The course is equivalent to one A Level and is studied over two years. It is assessed through a combination of laboratory practical and assignment work, with controlled and externally marked assessments. The grades you can be awarded are Pass, Merit or Distinction for each unit and the final award ranges from Pass to Distinction*.

Typically, in the first year you will study the principles and applications of science before going on to study science investigation skills.You will also learn to use basic chemical practical techniques and study cell structure and function.

In the second year, you will study systems of the body which include the cardiorespiratory system, digestive system and the reproductive system.

There are four units of study, three mandatory and one optional. Two of the mandatory units consist of externally assessed examinations. The remaining units are assessed through assignment work.

Exam Board: Pearson RQF

As part of the course, all students will be expected to complete a minimum of one-week work experience in the Summer term. This will develop your employability skills and give you valuable experience for future applications. There will also be relevant visits and guest speakers from industry as well as demonstrations to enhance learning on the course.

We have up-to-date facilities in the science laboratories and state-of-the-art equipment. Lessons are varied and interesting and include a combination of theory, practical and assignment work. Scenarios set the scene for assignment work and are realistic and vocational in context.

Students have the opportunity to attend Med-Soc, (formerly Operating Theatre Live) partially funded by The Sixth Form and a bespoke STEM event designed to provide independent advice and guidance on a wide range of careers and courses in the scientific and medical fields.

Students progress to study health care related programmes or biomedical sciences. It is an essential requirement for careers such as: occupational health, radiotherapy, physiotherapy, sport science or laboratory work. The course combines well with Single Vocational Advanced Level Health & Social Care and Children’s Play, Learning & Development; especially if you are considering going into nursing, midwifery or social care.

Students will bring basic stationery and a calculator to lessons, be punctual, engaged and ready to learn. We also expect you to commit to at least five hours per week outside of lesson to be spent on independent learning. This will include: homework, reading, research, and revision for this subject.