BTEC Level 3 qualifications are designed to provide highly specialist work-related qualifications in a range of vocational sectors.  They give learners the knowledge, understanding and skills that they need to prepare for employment. The two year course is a nationally recognised qualification equivalent to 1 A* - E grade at A Level.

The teaching for the course will involve a mixture of teaching, practical work, personal research, group research, discussion, and visits to local businesses.  The course consists of an even mix of biology, chemistry, and physics topics. In the first year of study students will complete two mandatory units.  BTEC Level 3 Certificate in Applied Science can be gained at the end of the year pending their successful completion.  In the second year students will go on to complete a further two optional units, successful completion of which will result in achievement of Edexcel BTEC Level 3 extended certificate in Applied Science.

Course content

Year 1

Unit 1: Principles and applications of Science

This is the written exam element of the course covering the core principles of science — biology, chemistry and physics.

Unit 2: Practical scientific procedures and techniques

This is a written assignment based on the main principles of working in a science lab.

Unit 3: Scientific Investigation Skills

This is a practical set by the exam board.  Students having to plan, carry out and write up the experiment.

Optional Unit

We are able to choose a wide range of optional units. This is done in consultation with the students.  This year we are doing Human Regulation & Reproduction.

Examinations

Exam Board: Pearson

Unit 1: 3 exams in the summer term of year 1

Biology exam  (45 mins)

Physics exam  (45 mins)

Chemistry exam  (45 mins)

Unit 2: Internally assessed course work

Unit 3: A practical exam and a written exam paper – marked externally

Optional Unit

Internally assessed course work

Head of Subject: Dr S Cockbill

Entry Requirements

At least 4,5 overall in Science and grade 4 English Lit or Lang and 4 in Maths

Are you interested in: Developing your knowledge across all three sciences; using microscopes, lasers and other specialist equipment; dissecting animal and plant systems; learning laboratory techniques; applying scientific principles to personal, social, environmental and economic issues?

Leading to a career in: Biomedical sciences, Technicians and researchers, Hospital laboratory work, Forensics, Agriculture and Animal care, Food Technology, Health and Social Care

BTEC Science is  particularly suitable for progression onto vocational, science based degree programmes such as Nursing or Applied Science.

This subject goes well with: Maths, Psychology, Geography, PE, Art

Student Views

“I enjoy BTEC Science as it combines my favorite subjects with a practical side” Jess Year 13