Free Level 3 Advanced Subsidiary GCE in Chemistry B (Salters) Course in Oxford. Classes run at Wheatley Park School. Entry requires 4 to 5 GCSEs including English and maths at grade 4 (C) or above. The course runs full-time over 12 months, covering the OCR Salters Chemistry syllabus through daytime classroom study. The advanced subsidiary gce in chemistry b (salters) qualification sits at Level 3 and is equivalent in size to half an A Level, making it a recognised step toward university entry or further Level 3 study.
Who this course is for
If you're thinking about a career in health and social care but not ready to commit entirely to a purely work related course, the National Extended Certificate gives you an introduction to the sector whilst allowing you to study other subjects alongside it. Equivalent in size to one A Level, if you take it as part of a programme of study that includes other work related or academic Level 3 qualifications it can help you to move on to to a wide range of higher education and training opportunities.
Entry requirements
4-5 GCSE's including English and maths at grade 4 (C) or above.
What you will learn
You'll study the structure and properties of atoms, molecules, and chemical bonds.
You'll explore organic chemistry, including carbon compounds and reaction mechanisms.
You'll analyse physical chemistry concepts such as energy changes, equilibrium, and reaction rates.
You'll develop practical laboratory skills, including safe handling of chemicals and accurate measurement.
You'll interpret and evaluate experimental data to draw evidence-based conclusions.
You'll apply the Salters context-led approach, linking chemical concepts to real-world applications in industry, medicine, and the environment.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom teaching, practical laboratory work, and guided study at Wheatley Park School. Assessment is by written examinations set and marked by OCR. Practical skills are assessed through a separate endorsement, based on work completed during the course. There are no coursework assignments contributing to the final grade.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Wheatley Park School will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Laboratory technician: support scientists in research or testing environments.
Pharmacy assistant: assist pharmacists in dispensing and customer advice.
Science technician: prepare and maintain equipment in school or college labs.
Chemical manufacturing operative: entry-level production roles in the chemical industry.
Healthcare science support worker: assist clinical scientists in NHS settings.
What you could study next
A Level Chemistry (OCR or other board): the full two-year A Level, required for most chemistry-related degree courses.
A Level Biology or Physics: broaden your science profile for medicine, dentistry, or engineering applications.
Level 3 Applied Science Diploma: a more applied route if you want a broader science qualification alongside work-based contexts.
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Science): an alternative route to university if you decide to continue study later.
