BTEC Level 3 Applied Science (Double)

What is it?

The BTEC Applied Science qualifications are designed to provide specialist programmes covering the key knowledge and practical skills required for employment in the science industry and higher education courses.

Why study this subject at Blackpool Sixth?

Links have been made with universities and the Royal Society of Chemistry. Visits to workshops and events promoting the use of science in industry are undertaken by students. As part of your study at Blackpool Sixth you will be offered the opportunity to listen to expert speakers from universities and employers, visit universities and enjoy both day and residential trips to broaden your science knowledge and skills.

What skills will I develop?

Apart from applied science sector specific content, the requirements of the qualification will mean students develop the transferable and higher order skills that are highly regarded by both HE and employers. For example, carrying out practical laboratory tasks, planning investigations, collecting, analysing and presenting data, and reviewing and refining the methodology of practical and laboratory based work.

You will also develop other transferable skills such as:

• Working as part of team – this is used extensively in science since many heads are better than one.  Larger tasks can be split into smaller tasks mirroring the way you would work in industry.
• Problem solving  – you will be set several tasks that require you to analyse the question, find out what you need to do and who you need to consult in order to solve the problem.
• Research skills – you will be expected to research a wide variety of sources including the internet, books and scientific journal articles.
• Organisational skills – a key part of BTEC studies is meeting deadlines and organising your work – as would be expected when working in the sector.   IT skills – It is crucial that you are able to use IT skills to complete and organise your work.  You will be supported and helped throughout your course to develop these skills.

How will I be taught?

You will have instructional classes where important content is delivered during which you will be asked to complete tasks in order to help you learn.

How will I be assessed?

46% external assessment via exams and set tasks from the exam board, as well as 54% internal assessment submitted via assignments with set deadlines throughout the course.

Teacher expertise

• Jim – Chemistry examiner and laboratory skills
• Chris – High level expertise in Biology and Chemistry areas.
• Alistair – Biology specialist and social scientist including criminology and psychology

Field trips, projects and employability opportunities

Science club and medical society are the 6advance and 6Xtra opportunities available in the Science Academy.

Where does it lead?

There is a wide range of opportunities including degree courses, apprenticeships and careers that this qualification would enable students to access.

Equipment

Stationery equipment such as pens, paper.  A calculator – fx-85GT is recommended (approx. £6).

Examination board

Pearson