Level 3 Applied Science

You will study a variety of specialist units from all three disciplines of science, along with either maths and English (unless you already have a Grade 4 (C) at GCSE). Along with these qualifications you will take part in work experience during the year as well as employability sessions through tutorials.The units you will study are varied and will help you progress regardless of your chosen area of study in the future. They are likely to include:

Core Units:

• Principles and Applications of Science I
• Practical Scientific Procedures & Techniques
• Science Investigation Skills

Specialist Units:

• Laboratory Techniques & Their Applications
• Principles and Applications of Science II
• Investigative Project
• Contemporary Issues in Science
• Physiology of Human Body Systems
• Human Regulation and Reproduction
• Microbiological Techniques
• Electrical Circuits and their Application
• Genetics and Genetic Engineering
• Practical Chemical Analysis
• Biomedical science Skeleton and Muscle
• Applications of Organic Chemistry Industrial chemistry
• Applications of Inorganic Chemistry Microbiology

All units are subject to change and may be withdrawn. Throughout each unit, practical skills and behaviours associated and integral to the science and health industry are incorporated so that students are fully competent when they leave to progress in their science career.

This course is ideal for you if you have an interest in science and how it is applied in a variety of fields throughout education and industry. It is suitable for progression to Higher Education to study a science-based degree or to employment or an apprenticeship programme in a related area such as health, NHS, pharmaceuticals, mineralogy, biochemical, biomedical industry, petrochemicals, food science and technology, medical physics.

The course assessment is a mixture of internal coursework and external exams. Both coursework and the examined element are graded and students can achieve grades of pass, merit and distinction grade if they achieve the assignment. Assessment will vary depending upon the unit but there is a large practical element which students will be expected to complete and achieve. Good attendance is needed for the course as many tasks and activities plus the practical work are carried out in class.
English and maths GCSE assessment is by final exams should it be relevant. There are two examinations during year one for the science units and exams in maths or English should you be re-sitting those. There are two exams in the second year which rely on students applying their knowledge and understanding to areas across the science field.

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 or English and if you don't have a grade 4 (C) at GCSE and we will work with you towards achieving that goal . Work experience will be part of your study programme and complement your college study and prepare you for employment. We encourage students to seek out their own work experience so that they develop the skills suitable for their future career. 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. A large part of your programme is developing your skills and behaviours applicable to the science industry so students are encouraged to work cooperatively, in teams and to build rapport with their classmates. Weekly timetables will include tutorial support which will comprise of full group activities or one to one sessions to discuss individual progress or support needs.

-A range of subject knowledge will be learnt and these will be focused on the three main sciences of biology, chemistry and physics as a starting point plus a a variety of options involving applied sciences. These will vary depending upon the year but they are wide and topical and include the appropriate content to enable students to consolidate the underpinning science required for whichever career in science they wish to pursue.

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 Pecision making Problem solving Mathematical modelling Precision, accuracy and reliability Using apparatus and identifying equipment Producing risk assessments Forming conclusions Independent thinking Researching Problem solving

Behaviours are those characteristics that are required by an employer and these are reinforced and developed within your science classes. They can include a variety of responses such as adaptability, resilience, collaboration, communication, punctuality and time management, teamwork, professional conduct and having a positive attitude, all which will be explored and refined throughout your course. The expectation is that students build upon their own experiences and background to develop the key behaviours to enable them to progress and pursue the variety of pathways available to them in the science industry.

You will be expected to purchase a lab coat, safety glasses and scientific calculator prior to starting the course as these are essential for completing the activities during the course.

There may be opportunities to take part in visits/trips to the science/natural history museum and local industry. The cost will be approximately £20-30 and is payable during the year as and when trips happen.

There will be the opportunity to experience guest speakers from various organisations to give you an idea of the various industries and occupations that are available to science students. There will be visits to associated universities for open days and or subject related visits.

Students are eligible to apply for the Busary Fund to help with the costs of uniform, equipment and trips - if they are from a lower income household.

With a Level 3 science qualification there are many options open to students who wish to pursue further study. Examples are: Microbiologist in the NHS Biomedical scientist working in a hospital or private multinational pharmaceutical company A materials testing laboratory in an industry such as construction, paper or plastics manufacture

• A school, college or university laboratory technician
• An environmental science laboratory technician or filed agent
• Forensic scientist for the Home Office or Distaster recovery company. -Health care worker/nursing/midwifery -Paramedic science/Physiotherapy/Occupational health -Food industry scientist -Petrochemical/Chemical industry Note: You cannot easily progress to University to study Medicine, Veterinary science, Pharmacy or Dentistry from this qualification but there are some Universities that now offer a Gateway programme which may enable certain students to apply. These pathways will be discussed in September with those students who may qualify and who may wish to research. However, all student on the course can enter related degrees in Medical, Veterinary Science and Health.

4 GCSEs at grade 4 which must include double science at grade 4 and maths or English must be at grade 4, with the other being at least a grade 3.

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.