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BTEC Level 3 Applied Science Course in Swindon 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.

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About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Applied Science Course in Swindon. Classes run at The Ridgeway School and Sixth Form College, full-time over two years.

The course covers applied science across sectors such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and energy. You'll build the technical knowledge needed for skilled technician roles. Units include core science principles alongside specialist applied topics. Entry requires GCSE grade 5 in English, Maths, and Science.

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

Who this course is for

The UK is currently regarded as a world leader in sectors including renewable energy, space, low carbon, pharmaceutical, utilities, automotive, agri-food and bioscience. The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Science is designed to train learners to fill associate or ‘para’ professional and skilled technician roles in a number of sectors, including: health care, oil, gas, electricity, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and transport equipment. Learners develop the knowledge, understanding and skills required by the sector, including essential employability skills, and apply them in real work contexts.

Entry requirements

GCSE grade 5-5 in combined science or 2 grade 5s in separate science, grade 5 in English and grade 5 in Maths

What you will learn

  • You'll study core scientific principles across biology, chemistry, and physics.
  • You'll explore how science applies in sectors like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and energy.
  • You'll develop practical laboratory skills used in technician roles.
  • You'll learn to analyse and interpret scientific data.
  • You'll understand health and safety practices relevant to science workplaces.
  • You'll build knowledge of specialist applied science topics linked to industry.

How you will learn

The BTEC National Extended Certificate uses a mix of internal and external assessment. Most units are assessed through assignments and practical tasks completed in class. Some units are assessed by external exams set by Pearson Edexcel. You'll work through units in a classroom setting at the college, with teacher-led sessions and hands-on practical work.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Ridgeway School and Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Laboratory Technician, supports scientific testing and experiments in a lab setting.
  • Laboratory Assistant, assists senior scientists with day-to-day lab tasks.
  • Science Technician, maintains equipment and prepares materials in schools or industry.
  • Pharmaceutical Technician, works in drug production or quality control environments.
  • Environmental Technician, monitors and tests environmental samples in the field or lab.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, for learners aiming toward a science degree.
  • BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Applied Science, a larger qualification covering more specialist units.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Applied Science, a Level 4 qualification for those moving into higher technical roles.
  • Degree in Biomedical Science, Chemistry, or a related field, for those progressing to university.
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