Applied Science
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Blocks
1
Level
Vocational
Course Length
2 Years
Timetable
Full Time
Key Skills:
Reasons to study Applied Science
Applied Science is an exciting course that allows you to study the breadth of biology, chemistry and physics all at Level 3 without having to commit to three separate A-Levels in those science subjects.
Applied Science at Priestley will allow you to develop strong foundations in each of the 3 sciences whilst developing your technical and practical skills to work in a lab environment.
You will conduct in-depth practical work and your own research, developing your independence as a learner and developing transferable skills in preparation for your career or further study.
Your assessment will be a mix of exam and non-exam assessment (NEA), and you will be taught by supportive, experienced, specialist teachers in each science, allowing you to achieve your best on the course.
The qualification is designed to be taken alongside A Levels as part of a mixed pathway programme.
What you will study
As an applied science student at Priestley College, you will study five units:
3 theory based units studying the principles and applications of biology, chemistry and physics
2 practical based units including your own investigative project.
Note this course can only be completed over two years.
What you will need
You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements for your chosen pathway
Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above
Grade 44 in GCSE Combined Science (or two grade 4s from GCSE Biology, Chemistry or Physics)
Grade 4 in GCSE Maths
Grade 4 in GCSE English Language
How you will be assessed
50% by examination (3 theory-based exams in biology, chemistry and physics)
50% by non-examination assessment (NEA) which will entail practical work and reports, reflections on scientific skills and an independent investigative project that you decide, research and complete.
Priestley extra
A number of visits to increase understanding of science in the workplace. Students have visited Fiddlers Ferry Power Station, Manchester University, Chester University and Whiston Hospital Labs. You will also have access to a variety of guest speakers from universities and local employers. If you are exploring a health-based career, you may want to complement this with the Priestley NHS Cadets Programme.
Reading List
The Royal Institution LecturesÂ
Horizon on the BBC iplayer https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/b006mgxf/horizon
Bozeman Science –www.bozemanscience.com
Khan Academy – www.khanacademy.org/science
chemrevise https://chemrevise.org/
Royal Society of Biology (RSB) https://www.rsb.org.uk/index.html
The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) https://edu.rsc.org/student
Institute of Physics (IoP) https://www.iop.org/education/school-and-college-students
Pearson Revise Level 3 AAQ BTEC National in Applied Science Complete Revision and Practice
Level 3 AAQ BTEC National in Applied Science Extended Certificate Student Book
Bad Science by Ben Goldacre
The Vital Question: Why is life the way it is? by Nick Lane
Extremes: Life, Death and the Limits of the Human Body by Kevin Fong
Chemistry for Breakfast: The Amazing Science of Everyday Life by Mai Thi Nguyen-Kim
For the Love of Physics: From the End of the Rainbow to the Edge of Time - A Journey Through the Wonders of Physics by Walter Lewin
Horizon on the BBC iplayer https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/b006mgxf/horizon
Bozeman Science –www.bozemanscience.com
Khan Academy – www.khanacademy.org/science
chemrevise https://chemrevise.org/
Royal Society of Biology (RSB) https://www.rsb.org.uk/index.html
The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) https://edu.rsc.org/student
Institute of Physics (IoP) https://www.iop.org/education/school-and-college-students
Pearson Revise Level 3 AAQ BTEC National in Applied Science Complete Revision and Practice
Level 3 AAQ BTEC National in Applied Science Extended Certificate Student Book
Bad Science by Ben Goldacre
The Vital Question: Why is life the way it is? by Nick Lane
Extremes: Life, Death and the Limits of the Human Body by Kevin Fong
Chemistry for Breakfast: The Amazing Science of Everyday Life by Mai Thi Nguyen-Kim
For the Love of Physics: From the End of the Rainbow to the Edge of Time - A Journey Through the Wonders of Physics by Walter Lewin
Progression
This course will allow progression into allied medical professions such as nursing, midwifery, paramedicine, physiotherapy, as well as further study of the sciences at degree level. Qualifications in Applied Science can provide access to work in hospitals, education, quality control, testing, environmental science laboratories and many more!
Applied Science Destinations -
BSc Biology at Manchester Metropolitan University, Nursing (Adult) at Edge Hill University, Zoology at University of Chester, Mechanical Engineering at University of Greater Manchester, Computer Science at Liverpool John Moores University, Medical Engineering Apprenticeship with NHS, BSc Chemistry at Manchester Metropolitan University, Forensic Science at Liverpool John Moores University, Marine Biology at Bangor University, Zoology at Lancaster University, Business & Law at The University of Greater Manchester, Foundation Art at Priestley College.
How to Apply
Demand for places at Priestley College has been exceptionally high in recent years. We recommend you apply for your place early to avoid disappointment.Â
Study Programme
A-Level and Vocational (Level 3) students are expected to follow a full study programme of three plus one AS-Level courses/equivalents. Your study programme can, however, include a Specialism as one of your choices.