A+ Programme Extended Certificate in Applied Science

The Level 3 BTEC Extended Certificate in Applied Science is a mixed delivery course which will allow students to learn in a scientific workplace context and is broadly equivalent to one A Level. It covers aspects of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths and allows students to gain necessary scientific knowledge and understanding, as well as laboratory, practical and analytical skills. This engaging programme is ideal for students who have an interest in the science disciplines. This is a two year course which involves a mixture of mandatory units and optional units covering the different science disciplines.

You will need a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 5 or above including maths and English Language, in subjects relevant to your A Level or A+ Programme subject choices. You should also have GCSE grade 5-5 in Combined Science or two grade 5s in any science subject.

This course is assessed through a variety of means, including internally assessed unit assignments (moderated by Pearson), externally assessed unit assignments and two external exams (one in each year). The units are graded as Pass, Merit or Distinction and, for the internally assessed units, could take a variety of forms. These include: completing practical tasks, written practical reports, presentations, scientific posters and research reports. The assessments are designed to provide you with a broad range of skills, which will ensure that you are thoroughly prepared for your chosen progression route after college.

For further details please contact info.stafford@nscg.ac.uk

A vast array of potential university courses or job opportunities will be open to you including biochemist, biologist, biomedical scientist, biotechnologist, botanist, chemical engineering technician, crime scene investigator/scenes of crime officer, environmental scientist, food scientist/technologist, forensic crime analyst, forensic scientist, information scientist, laboratory technician, marine biologist, materials technician, medical laboratory, midwifery and nursing. Many of our past students have successfully gone on to study a wide range of courses at university.

This course is free for anyone aged 16 – 18.

College Maintenance Allowance (CMA): Anyone with a household income under £26,000 can receive up to £20 per week financial support to help pay for travel and meals and meet the costs of essential trips, books, stationery and equipment. The payments will be subject to full attendance on your course. A range of other financial support is available, depending on your personal circumstances. For more details visit nscg.ac.uk/finance