Free BTEC Level 2 Applied Science Course in Nottingham

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 2 Applied Science Course in Nottingham. Classes run at Nottingham College City Hub, full-time during the day. This free BTEC applied science course runs for one year and covers all three sciences: biology, chemistry, and physics, explored through the themes of life and environment, earth and energy, and the universe. You'll study in specialist laboratories, combining hands-on practical work with scientific theory. A work placement of 30 or more hours is encouraged as part of your studies. You'll need 4 GCSEs at grades 9 to 3, including English Language and Maths, with at least one at grade 9 to 4. Functional Skills Level 1 and Level 2 are accepted as equivalents.

Who this course is for

This course is perfect if you enjoy all things science, have a passion for problem solving and investigation and a good eye for detail.

Entry requirements

You’ll need 4 GCSEs at grades 9-3, including English Language and Maths - one of English Language or Maths must be grade 9-4. Functional Skills Level 1 can be used as equivalent to GCSE grade 3 and Functional Skills Level 2 can be used as equivalent to GCSE grade 4 or above.

This course is for students aged 16-18.

What you will learn

  • You'll study the principles of biology and how living things interact with their environment.
  • You'll explore chemistry concepts, including the composition of the earth and natural materials.
  • You'll investigate physics topics covering energy and the universe.
  • You'll develop practical laboratory skills through hands-on experiments and investigations.
  • You'll apply problem-solving and analytical thinking to scientific questions.
  • You'll strengthen your maths and English skills in a scientific context.
  • You'll gain an overview of career paths available across a range of scientific fields.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom teaching and practical laboratory sessions. Assessment is through a combination of internally assessed units and an externally assessed exam. The internal units are assessed through assignments and practical tasks completed during the course. The external unit is assessed by a Pearson Edexcel exam. You'll also be encouraged to complete a work placement of 30 or more hours alongside your studies.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Nottingham College City Hub will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Laboratory technician assistant: supporting scientists in research or testing labs.
  • Science technician: preparing equipment and materials in school or college labs.
  • Pharmacy assistant: working in a pharmacy under qualified supervision.
  • Environmental monitoring assistant: collecting and recording environmental data.
  • Quality control assistant: checking products meet safety and quality standards.
  • Healthcare science support worker: assisting clinical scientists in NHS settings.

What you could study next

  • BTEC Level 3 National in Applied Science: the natural next step, going deeper into biology, chemistry, and physics at a higher level.
  • A Levels in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics: if you want to follow a more traditional academic route toward university.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Laboratory and Associated Sciences: a more vocational route into lab-based work.
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science): if you later want to apply to university as a mature student.