Free Level 3 Applied Science Course in Westcliff-on-Sea

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

About this course

Free Level 3 Applied Science Course in Westcliff-on-Sea. Classes run at St Bernard's High School, full-time over two years.

The course covers biology, chemistry, and physics. You'll link science theory to real laboratory work and practical skills. Units include topics from all three sciences, with a strong focus on hands-on investigation. Assessment is mostly coursework, with some external exams. This applied science qualification suits those who prefer practical work alongside written study.

You'll finish with an AQA Extended Certificate in Applied Science at Level 3.

Who this course is for

If you enjoy science subjects, practical laboratory work and prefer coursework to exams, this more work relatedly based course, linking the science you study to jobs using scientific skills might suit you. You can study it alongside A level science subjects or other level 3 qualifications, making it equally suitable for entry to science courses in higher education, or going straight into work or an apprenticeship. The course covers the fundamentals of biology, chemistry and physics and you'll work towards the certificate in year one and the extended certificate in year two.

Entry requirements

See prospectus on school website

What you will learn

  • You'll study the fundamentals of biology, chemistry, and physics.
  • You'll carry out practical laboratory investigations.
  • You'll apply scientific skills to work-related contexts.
  • You'll analyse data and draw conclusions from experiments.
  • You'll develop scientific writing and reporting skills.
  • You'll explore how science links to careers and industry.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom lessons and practical laboratory sessions. Assessment is mainly coursework and internally assessed units. There are also some externally assessed components. You'll build a portfolio of work over the two years. The mix of coursework and exams reflects how science is applied in the workplace.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. St Bernard's High School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Laboratory technician, supports scientific testing and research in a lab.
  • Laboratory assistant, prepares equipment and samples for experiments.
  • Science technician, maintains lab facilities in schools or industry.
  • Quality control analyst, checks products meet scientific standards.
  • Research assistant, supports scientists in data collection and analysis.

What you could study next

  • A Level Sciences, for those wanting a more exam-based route into university.
  • Level 3 BTEC National Diploma in Applied Science, a larger qualification for deeper study.
  • Higher National Certificate in Applied Science, a step toward a science degree.
  • Degree in Biology, Chemistry, or a related science subject, for graduate-level roles.

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