Free BTEC Level 3 Applied Science Course in Crawley

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Applied Science Course in Crawley. Classes run at Ifield Community College, full-time during the day over two years. This Pearson Edexcel level 3 btec applied science qualification develops your analytical and problem-solving skills through applied, practical learning. You'll study scientific principles and learn to investigate, evaluate evidence, and work through real problems. The course is free if you're under 19 years old at the start. To join, you'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including grade 4 in English Language or Literature, Maths, and at least one science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Combined Science grade 4/4).

Who this course is for

The UK is facing a skills shortage in STEM subjects. This means that there are plenty of opportunities for those who have skills in these subject areas. Science lies at the core of STEM, providing you with analytical and problem solving skills, teaching you to think, investigate and come up with solutions. This BTEC is a vocational qualification which is designed for post 16 learners wanting to continue their education through applied learning; who aim to progress to higher education and ultimately to employment, possibly in the health sector.

The course has been designed to help you develop the skills and techniques needed to be employed.

Entry requirements

Five subjects at GCSE at grade 4 or above to include Grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and Grade 4 in Mathematics and Grade 4 in GCSE Biology, Chemistry or Physics or grade 4/4 in GCSE Combined Science.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop analytical and problem-solving skills across core science disciplines.
  • You'll investigate scientific questions using practical and experimental methods.
  • You'll evaluate data and draw evidence-based conclusions.
  • You'll study biology, chemistry, and physics concepts at Level 3.
  • You'll apply scientific knowledge to real-world contexts and scenarios.
  • You'll build the skills needed to progress to higher education in science or related fields.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Ifield Community College, combining taught sessions with practical and investigative work. Assessment is through a mix of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations, as set by Pearson Edexcel. Your assignments will be marked at the centre, while exams are sat at set points during the two-year course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Ifield Community College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Laboratory technician: support scientists in research or testing environments.
  • Science technician: assist in school, college, or industrial labs.
  • Healthcare science assistant: work in NHS or private diagnostic settings.
  • Environmental monitoring officer: collect and analyse environmental data.
  • Pharmaceutical production operative: work in medicines manufacturing.
  • Research assistant: support university or industry research teams.

What you could study next

  • BSc in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Biomedical Science: the most direct next step for learners aiming for a science degree at university.
  • BSc in Nursing or Midwifery: for those moving toward healthcare professions.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Applied Science: a work-based higher education route if a full degree isn't the right fit yet.
  • Level 3 A Levels in science subjects: some learners choose to add A Levels alongside or after BTEC study to broaden their university options.

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