Key Information
Level: LEVEL 3Examination Board: Pearson / Edexcel
Subject Leader: Ms Marlow
Entry Requirements
Students wanting to study Applied Science AAQ need to have good independent skills and be interested in Science, as they will study Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics.GCSE Grade requirements:
Grade 5 in Combined Science, Grade 4 in GCSE Maths, Grade 4 in GCSE English
*Grade 44 in Combined/Separate Science will be considered
Why Choose this course?
Students experience some of the transferable and higher order skills that are highly regarded by both HE and employers. For example, when studying the practical scientific techniques unit, students will develop laboratory skills, including collaboration and team working, which support some of the skills students need to progress to higher education, employment, self-employment or training.Combines well with many subjects e.g. Applied business, IT, DT, Geography, Music, Philosophy etc.
Most students enjoy Applied Science and retain this interest.
Prospects
The applied science sector is diverse and wide-ranging, including, for example, biomedical, forensic, physical and chemical sciences. There are approximately 5.8 million people employed in applied science occupations in the UK. This equates to approximately 20% of the workforce. The applied science sector has a crucial role to play in delivering economic growth in the UK and allowing companies to compete in a rapidly enlarging global market.
This qualification, when studied with other level 3 qualifications, is primarily designed to support progression to employment, after further study at university. It can also support progression into apprenticeships programmes in many sectors, depending on the other qualifications being studied alongside the Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in Applied Science.
Course Content
Year 12 - Students complete three externally assessed units that develop knowledge and understanding that underpins progression in the science sector and on to science higher nationals and degrees.
Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Biology
Topic A - Structure and function of cells and tissues
Topic B - Structure and function of biological molecules
Topic C - Cellular transport and enzyme activity
Unit 2: Principles and Applications of Chemistry
Topic A - Atomic and electronic structure
Topic B - Bonding and structure
Topic C - Periodicity
Topic D - Physical Chemistry
Topic E - Organic Chemistry
Unit 3: Principles and Applications of Physics
Topic A - Understanding waves and optical fibres
Topic B - Forces in transportation and Newtons Laws of Motion
Topic C - Electrical circuits and the transfer of energy
Year 13 -
Unit 4: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
This is essentially a skills-based unit in which learners will gain all the skills necessary to plan and carry out a scientific investigation, and to process and analyse the results
Optional final unit:
5 Scientific investigation skills
6 Contemporary issues in Science
Course Opportunities/ Activities
Developing links with STEM
Links with King's College London.
Support and Challenge
After school study sessions in the run up to exams and mocks.
Live document support via One Drive for coursework.
High level of challenge in lesson within a supportive atmosphere.
Embedded career links in lessons.
Regular assessments within Learning Aims to help with progress.
Expert and experienced teaching.
Student Comment
The teachers are kind, friendly and very helpful
The teachers are supportive and encouraging
The teachers make the learning environment comfortable and fun while pushing you to attain your full potential. The course is very practical and you get understanding of real life concepts which is helpful in the outside world.
