Free BTEC Level 2 Applied Science Course in Islington. Classes run full-time during the day at Capital City College Angel Campus, over 37 weeks. You'll study the principles of science and forensic investigation, covering topics from chemistry and the living body to crime scene analysis. Practical work takes place in specialist laboratories, including a crime scene suite and DNA lab. You'll need to be aged 16 to 18, with four GCSEs at grade 3 or above including English Language, Maths and Science, or a Level 1 Diploma in Science with Functional Skills at Level 1. All applicants have an interview and assessment before starting.
Who this course is for
Do you have an interest in research and want to discover how diseases are caused or why we behave the way we do?This course offers a mixture of hands-on practical activities, industry visits and theory of science. Studying this course will provide you with the experience that will develop your skills and knowledge, and the confidence to progress towards higher-level study in one of the sciences - applied, health, medical or forensic sciences. Gaining the Level 2 qualification will allow you to investigate different science careers, learners will complete practicals into understanding human behaviour, study ecosystems and have the chance to complete their own mini-research project. Level 2 Applied Science Student: 'I am really enjoying my time at college, the environment is the best. We have the freedom to be individuals and progress into many pathways. The staff are friendly, and I have learnt many things from them. They are always there to help, and I feel supported. I feel I am going to succeed in this college.'
Entry requirements
You will need:To be aged 16 to 18Four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English Language, Maths and Science or a Level 1 Diploma in Science, with Functional Skills in Maths and English at Level 1All applicants must have an interview and assessment to confirm that the course is suitable for them.
What you will learn
You'll explore the principles of science, including chemistry, physics, and biology
You'll study how chemistry affects our Earth and environment
You'll investigate the science of the living body and human behaviour
You'll learn the principles of forensic crime scene investigation
You'll carry out practical experiments, including rates of reactions and chemical analysis
You'll conduct forensic investigations in a specialist crime scene suite and DNA laboratory
You'll develop skills in forming hypotheses and designing your own scientific investigations
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of classroom teaching and hands-on practical work in professional laboratories. Assessment is through a combination of coursework assignments and externally assessed units, as set by Pearson Edexcel. All applicants complete an interview and assessment before the course begins to confirm it is the right fit.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Capital City College Angel Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Laboratory technician: support scientists in research or testing labs
Forensic science technician: assist with crime scene evidence and analysis
Science technician: work in schools, colleges, or industrial settings
Police officer: a forensic science background supports investigative roles
Biomedical science assistant: entry-level support in hospital or clinical labs
Environmental monitoring assistant: collect and test environmental samples
What you could study next
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate or Diploma in Applied Science: the natural next step, and a route into university science degrees or higher apprenticeships
A Levels in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics: if you want to combine science subjects for university entry
Level 3 Diploma in Forensic Investigation: for those focused on a forensic career path
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Applied Science: a work-focused route into laboratory or technical roles