Applied Science - Level 2 First Extended Certificate

The Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First Extended Certificate in Applied Science has been designed primarily for young people aged 14–19 who may wish to explore a vocational route throughout Key Stage 4. It provides an engaging, robust, broad-based introduction to applied science principles.

The underpinning knowledge, understanding, and practical skills that make up this qualification reflect the needs of employers and higher and further education professionals. It presents knowledge, skills, and understanding in a meaningful work-related context, allowing learners to understand theory and application.  

The course comprises eight mandatory units that underpin the knowledge and skills that are key to progression within science-based industries. These mandatory units cover the range of essential scientific principles and underlying introductions to essential knowledge and applications in biology, chemistry, and physics. English and Mathematics have been contextualized within the assessment aims. This will allow you to practice these essential skills in naturally occurring and meaningful contexts, where appropriate.

Topics covered can include:

• Chemistry and our Earth
• Energy and our Universe
• Biology and our Environment
• Human Behaviour

You will need:

• Four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English Language, Maths, and Science or a Level 1 Diploma in Science, with Functional Skills in Maths and English at Level 1
• A reference from your previous school/college
• All applicants must have an interview and assessment to confirm that the course is suitable for them.

This qualification includes two externally assessed units (by the examination board) that deal with science principles and scientific skills. All the other units are assessed internally.

The approach for the internally assessed units provides opportunities to explore beyond these principles into vocationally linked activities. It will enable you to receive feedback on their progress throughout the course as they provide evidence towards meeting the unit assessment criteria.

Aged 16-18

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August prior to the start date of your course and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your programme then your study with us will be free. Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.

Some courses will have other associated costs, such as for specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.

Adults - Entry Level, Level 1 and Level 2

If you will be aged 19+ on 31st August prior to the start date of your course, up to Level 2, then your study with us will be free. You must have lived for 3 years within the EU/EEA/UK prior to the start of your course, you must have lived in the UK before 1st January 2021 and you must have permission to live in the UK for at least 12 months from the first day of learning. Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.

Some courses will have other associated costs, such as for specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.

Additional costs, which may include the purchase of books, will be confirmed at enrolment.

This course motivates learners and opens doors to progression into further study and responsibility within the workplace. Our learners usually progress from this Level 2 course to Level 3 BTEC National Diploma in Applied Science or Engineering and eventually to the university, apprenticeships or work.