Science Extended Certificate

Course Details

Awarding Body: Pearson

Staff Contacts: Head of Science; Mr B Allsop  Email: BAllsop@quarrydale.notts.sch.uk

Ready to Apply?

Click here if you are an existing Quarrydale Student

Click here if you are NOT an existing Quarrydale Student

Key features of the course

BTEC’s embody a fundamentally learner-centred approach to the curriculum, with a flexible, unit-based structure and knowledge applied in project-based assessments. They focus on the holistic development of the practical, interpersonal and thinking skills required to be able to succeed in employment and higher education.

Employers are looking for recruits with a thorough grounding in the latest industry requirements and work-ready skills such as teamwork. Higher education needs students who have experience of research, extended writing and meeting deadlines.

The assessment of the course consists of internally assessed assignments (that might include projects, reports or investigations), externally assessed practical investigations and externally assessed exams.

The course covers a wide range of topics within biology, chemistry and physics.

A Level 3 BTEC Applied Science – Extended Certificate is the equivalent of one A level in terms of UCAS points for university applications.

Entry Requirements:

5 GCSE’s at grade 4 or above (including English and Maths) and Separate Sciences Grade 4 or above or Combined Science Grade 4 – 4 or above

What could this course lead on to?

Many universities accept BTEC Applied Science for entry on to degree courses, for example – Biological Sciences, Applied Chemistry, Applied Physics, Astronomy, Electrical Engineering, Nursing among others

Level 3 BTEC’s are also an excellent qualification for acceptance onto higher level apprenticeships.

Future prospects and careers

Many careers within science are opened up with a Level 3 BTEC in Applied Science; research assistant, conservation work, biomedical research, animal care and zoology, pharmacology, pharmacy, marine biology, radiology, midwifery and nursing

What type of student is this course suitable for?

This course is suitable for students who have an interest in all three Sciences; who are fascinated by understanding the world around them and wish to pursue a career within a science or technical field

Assessment Structure

It is important to understand the assessment structure of the course. What percent are the units ? Are they internally or externally assessed ? Are they exams or coursework?
Unit One
  • Principles and Applications of Science 1
  • Exam
  • (25% of the final grade)
Unit Two
  • Practical Science Procedures and Techniques
  • Assignments
  • (25% of the final grade)
Unit Three
  • Science Investigation Skills
  • Externally set investigation
  • (33% of the final grade)
Unit Four
  • Optional Units
  • Assignments
  • (17% of the final grade)