Entry Requirements

You will need grade 4 in GCSE English Language, Maths and Science

What you will study

AAQ Applied Science Extended Certificate

The course covers all three sciences of Biology, Chemistry and Physics but in an “applied” context. That means you will not only learn the science but also how it is used in real life organisations.

  • Principles and Applications of Biology
  • Principles and Applications of Chemistry
  • Principles and Applications of Physics
  • Practical Scientific Procedure and Techniques
  • Science Investigation Skills

AAQ Applied Human Biology Extended Certificate

This qualification enhances studies with the application of knowledge to real-life contexts and includes:

  • Fundamentals of Human Biology
  • Diagnosis and Treatments of diseases
  • Nutrition and metabolism
  • Genetics
  • Biomedical Techniques
  • The Brain
Students using apparatus in Biology lab

Progression

This science pathway encourages independence and development of transferable skills that can be used in both higher education and other life and work situations such as effective communication, recording and interpreting research, presenting information, time management, problem solving and data analysis.

The AAQ courses will prepare you for a career in many science-based industries. These include Primary Teaching, Childcare, Nursing, Midwifery, Sports Management or Sports Training, Occupational Health and Allied Health Professions. Many students progress to study a wide range of subjects including Forensics, Construction, Animal Behaviour, Biochemistry, Physiotherapy and Biomedical Sciences. Other students choose to follow Apprenticeships in laboratory work or Engineering.

Physics students in the classroom.

Facilities

  • A fully equipped laboratory which is suitable for a full range of chemistry, physics and biology work, plus individual practical science investigations of different kinds.
  • Specialist biology physics and chemistry equipment.
  • A fully connected computer room and wireless laptops that can be used for a variety of purposes in the laboratory.
Male and female student in a science lab

Further Information

2025 Results

BTEC Applied Science Extended Certificate:

  • Dist* – Dist: 72%
  • Dist* – Merit: 100%

BTEC Applied Science Diploma:

  • Dist* – Dist: 94%
  • Dist* – Merit: 100%

BTEC Human Biology

  • Dist* – Dist: 73%
  • Dist* – Merit: 100%

Assessments

There are a combination of internally assessed assignments and external examinations.

Course Support

Your expert tutors will give you extensive support and guidance throughout your time on the course both during lessons and through the college tutorial system. We pride ourselves on taking a personal interest in your success.

  • Friendly, supportive tutors
  • Exam preparation tutorials
  • Coursework tutorials
  • One-to-one support

Enrichment Activities

  • Research Tasks
  • Guest Speakers
  • Trips and visits
  • Higher Education visits

Entry Requirements

You will need grade 4 in GCSE English Language, Maths and Science