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 2025 before the start date of the course, and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your course then your study with us will be free.

Please see here for the documents you need to show us.

Some courses have additional costs, such as specialist materials and trips.

Many of our students are eligible for financial support. See here for details.

Adults - LEVEL 2

This course may be free for you if you meet certain conditions:

• If you are not working or have a low income. You need to show proof of your income or benefits.
• If you are aged 19-23 and you do not have the equivalent of five GCSEs at grade 9-4. You need to show us proof of any qualifications you already have.
• Residency rules apply. You need to show you have permission to live, work and study in the UK without conditions for at least 12 months.
• There are some exceptions, such as certain visa types.

Check here which documents you need to show us, and which visa types are allowed.

If you do not meet the residency rules, you can still enrol on the course but you may have to pay some fees. All applicants are fee-assessed during enrolment.

If you are not eligible for a free or reduced-cost course, you need to pay the full fee.

Some courses have additional 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.