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Free Level 3 Applied Science Course in Swindon

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

About this course

Free 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 the science behind sectors like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and energy. You'll build practical and technical knowledge for skilled technician roles. Entry requires GCSE grade 5 in English and Maths, and grade 5-5 in combined science or two grade 5s in separate sciences.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Diploma 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 the principles of biology, chemistry, and physics at Level 3.
  • You'll develop practical laboratory skills used in scientific work.
  • You'll learn how science applies in industries like pharmaceuticals and healthcare.
  • You'll explore data handling and scientific analysis techniques.
  • You'll build knowledge of health and safety in scientific environments.
  • You'll understand how scientific processes support sectors such as energy and chemicals.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and practical laboratory work. Assessment is a mix of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed exams. The assignments let you apply your knowledge to real scientific scenarios. Exams test your understanding of core science content.

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 analysis in a lab setting.
  • Laboratory assistant, assists with experiments and sample preparation.
  • Science technician, maintains equipment and supports research teams.
  • Pharmaceutical technician, works in drug manufacturing or quality control.
  • Healthcare science assistant, supports clinical science teams in the NHS.
  • Environmental technician, monitors and analyses environmental samples.

What you could study next

  • A Level Sciences, for those wanting to go deeper into biology, chemistry, or physics before university.
  • BSc in Applied Science or a related degree, the natural next step for a science career.
  • Higher National Certificate in Applied Sciences, a Level 4 option for those moving into technical or laboratory management roles.
  • Science apprenticeship at Level 4 or above, combining work and further study.
Apply on ridgewayschool.com →
Apply now →

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