A BTEC qualification is a practical, work-related course aimed at introducing you to the academic and employment area you have chosen and provides a good basis to go on to a more advanced work-related qualification. You will learn by completing practical work, projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, with activities and demands incorporated. You will study a variety of specialist units from all three disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics as well units in forensic science and environmental science. You will also study alongside these maths and English (unless you already have a Grade 4 (C) at GCSE).
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What will I study?
The units you will study are likely to include: Exploring biology Exploring chemistry Exploring physics Carrying out a Scientific Experiment Measuring Waves Used in Technology Investigating a Crime Scene Being Organised Developing a Personal Progression Plan Working with Others These will prepare you for further study within science plus help you develop the skills and behaviours needed for employment.
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Who is this course for?
This course is ideal for you if you have an interest in Science or health and wish to eventually enter employment in the science or health industry. The units taught enable you to develop the basic scientific skills and knowledge for you to progress further. If you have limited science knowledge and wish to pursue a career in the health or science industry, then this is the course to choose.
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How is the course assessed?
The course assessment is based on coursework and assignments which will help you develop the academic and study skills to progress further. The assignment will included practical work, team work, collaboration with peers as well as tests and class based activities. You will be expected to have good attendance to enable these assignments and activities to take place.
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Your Study Programme
If you are aged 16-18, you will join a Study Programme. We will make sure you are working at the right level on your core qualification and are challenged to achieve the highest level of qualification you can. All students will continue to improve their maths and English and if you don't have a grade 4 (C) at GCSE and we will work with you towards achieving that goal (subject to specific entry requirements for particular courses). You will also get involved in activities to help you develop life skills and to build your confidence so you can make progress in your career. Weekly timetables will include tutorial support, digital skills which may comprise of full group activities or one to one sessions to discuss individual progress or support needs.
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Knowledge
You will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of:
A range of subject knowledge focused on the three main sciences of biology, chemistry and physics plus a a variety of options involving applied sciences such as forensic, environmental and food technology.
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Skills
You will have the ability to:
A wide range of skills will be developed that provide the basics needed for progression to higher level courses such as:
Communicating scientific knowledge, critical thinking, decision making, problem solving, using apparatus and identifying equipment, producing risk assessments, forming conclusions.
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Behaviours
What is required?
- Time management and attendance, punctuality, collaborative working, professional conduct, resilience, adaptability, understanding and following laboratory rules, and respecting others opinions.
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General info
You will be expected to purchase a lab coat, safety glasses and scientific calculator prior to starting the course. Your course requires practical work to be completed throughout the year working in the labs and crime scene room so students will be expected to have the necessary equipment to carry this out. Student can apply to the bursary fund for help to buy the equipment, if the household income is low. There may be opportunities to take part in visits/trips to a science museum and local industry. The cost will be approximately £20-30.
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Progression and Career Opportunities
After successful completion of this course you can progress to a vocational qualification, such as a Level 2 in Applied Science, Social science, Health & social care, Beauty Therapy or a related Apprenticeship programme or straight into employment. With further training or study, students are able to progress into a wide variety of careers such as:
- Forensic Science
- Applied science
- Social science
- Food Technology
- Analytical Science
- Quality Control
- Environmental Science Nursing Midwifery Paramedic science Biomedical science
- Working in a Hospital
- Working for a Scientific Magazine or Journal.
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Entry Requirements for new students
Four GCSEs at Grade 2 or above, or completion of Foundation/ESOL studies including English and maths GCSEs at grade 1-3.
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Admissions Process
We recommend that you attend one of our exciting open events so that you can look around the department, the college and meet the tutors. You are welcome to do this before or after you apply. These events have proved very successful in ensuring students and their families see the best of what the college has to offer such as our inspirational teaching areas, teachers, library facilities and places to eat.
Once you have applied our experienced Enrolment Team will consider your application carefully and will let you know, by email, if the College would like to make you a conditional offer based on you meeting the specified entry requirements. If your predicted grades or career aims suggest that an alternative subject area or course level would be more appropriate for you at this stage, we will contact you either by telephone, email or text. If you have told us that you have some additional support needs we will contact you to find out more so that we can help you.
