BTEC Level 3 Applied Science Course in Nottingham for 16 to 18 Year Olds

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? Check which courses you can do free.

About this course

BTEC Level 3 Applied Science Course in Nottingham. Classes run at Bluecoat Sixth Form, full-time over two years. A 16-19 Bursary Fund is available for households with an income under £35,000 a year. Fees may apply for other learners.

The course covers biology, chemistry, and physics alongside applied science skills used in laboratory and research settings. You'll study topics such as cell biology, chemical reactions, scientific investigation, and data analysis. The Pearson Edexcel qualification is valued by universities across a wide range of degree subjects, from nursing to sport science.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Certificate in Applied Science.

Who this course is for

This course is for students who are interested in following a career in science. Opportunities for further study exist in the form of the level 5 BTEC Higher National Diploma or a full time degree in a related subject. Our students have gone on to study everything from Architecture to Midwifery as the skills gained during the course are valued by universities. In combination with other subjects, students could study the following subjects at university: Adult Nursing, Law, Sport Science, Pharmacy, Psychology, Health and Social Care, and Forensic Science.

Entry requirements

5 x grade 4 or above in English Language and Maths. Grade 4/4 in Combined Science or at least 2 x grade 4 from Triple Science.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore core biology topics including cell structure and genetics.
  • You'll study chemical principles such as reactions, bonding, and analysis.
  • You'll investigate physics concepts including forces, energy, and waves.
  • You'll develop practical laboratory skills and safe working techniques.
  • You'll plan and carry out scientific investigations.
  • You'll analyse and interpret scientific data.
  • You'll communicate scientific findings clearly in written and practical formats.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and practical laboratory work. Assessment is a mix of internally assessed assignments and externally set examinations. Assignments are completed throughout the course and marked by your tutors. Exams test your knowledge of core science topics. Both elements contribute to your final grade.

What you will need to bring

Bluecoat Sixth Form will confirm what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Laboratory assistant, supports scientists in a research or testing lab.
  • Science technician, prepares equipment and materials in a school or college lab.
  • Laboratory technician, carries out routine tests and analysis; some roles may require further study or a degree.
  • Quality control analyst, checks products meet safety and quality standards in a manufacturing setting.
  • Research assistant, supports scientific projects; degree-level study is usually needed for progression.

What you could study next

  • BTEC Higher National Diploma in Applied Science (Level 5), a work-focused route into science careers or further degree study.
  • Bachelor's degree in a science subject (Level 6), such as biology, chemistry, nursing, sport science, or pharmacy; entry typically requires this BTEC alongside other qualifications.
  • Higher National Certificate in Applied Science (Level 4), a shorter step toward higher study or technical roles.

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