
This course offers a mixture of hands-on work, industry visits and study in the theory of science. You will also visit places of scientific interest to learn about the history of science, and visit working scientific facilities to see how theory is turned into practice. It consists of two separate qualifications. In your first year of study, you will work towards the Level 3 90-Credit National Foundation Diploma. Following successful completion of this qualification, you will be able to progress to the Extended Diploma. Our Extended Diplomas offer equivalent UCAS points to studying 3 A-Levels and will have a progression route to university.
The topics covered in the first year are:
The topics covered in the second year are:
You will need:
All applicants must have an interview and assessment to confirm that the course is suitable for them.
Assessment is continuous throughout the year through completing written assignments and projects as well as and performing practical work that is assessed internally within the college. There will also be some written examinations, assessed externally via Pearson, the BTEC awarding body.
If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, it will be free. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.
Entry Level, Level 1, Level 2
If you will be aged 19 or older on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, your course may be free, depending on your circumstances. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.
On successful completion of this course, you will progress onto the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Applied Science or you are able to apply for a Science Apprenticeship.