Why choose the Btec National Certificate in Applied Science?

The aim of this course is to provide a broad scientific knowledge for students interested in continuing their science education and possibly looking for careers in science related industry.

This course is suitable for students who enjoy a wide variety of learning styles. As it is portfolio based, there is the opportunity to make use of your strengths and look for support on your weaknesses.

You will especially enjoy the course if you like the challenge of independent research, supported by directed classroom activities such as practicals, lectures and group work.

Course Outline

The National Award in Applied Science consists of two core units plus four specialist units, each consisting of 60 hours 'guided learning'. Guided learning hours will be a combination of timetabled class time and independent study.

Each module is assessed using a portfolio of work produced by the individual student. The contents of the portfolio will vary with each module, but may include essays, presentations, work sheets, practical write-ups, poster work and research. Work must be the students own and any resources used must be referenced correctly at the end of each piece.

There will also be 'timed pieces' of work. These could include specific essays or question papers set as independent work, but may also be short test papers sat under exam conditions in the classroom.

The course is designed to give opportunities for practical work and industry visits to make the science more relevant and to give students ideas about possible careers.

Awarding of Grades

If students complete the two core units and one specialist unit (year 12), they can be credited with a 'BTEC National Certificate in Applied Science'. This has UCAS points equivalent to two AS levels.

If students complete an additional 3 specialist units (year 13), they can be credited with a 'BTEC National Award in Applied Science'. This has UCAS points equivalent to two A2's.

 

Grade	UCAS points	AS/A2 equivalent
Pass (P)	40	C
Merit (M)	80	B
Distinction (D)	120	A

 

The Modules

Unit	Core Units
1	Fundamentals of Science
4	Scientific Practical Techniques
Unit	Specialist Units
2	Working in the Science Industry
10	Using Science in the Workplace
16	Chemistry for Biology Technicians
23	Science for Environmental Technicians

 

The aim is to complete the two core modules and the 'Using Science in the Workplace' module in the first year (year 12), and the remaining three in the second year (year 13).

Resources and facilities

The department at Castle Manor is well resourced with textbooks (three new ranges), specialist equipment and teachers and access to ICT facilities. Students will benefit from using apparatus appropriate to higher level qualifications and will practice the skills required by employers within and beyond the field of science.

You will be provided with:
An A4 paper class notebook
An A4 hardback laboratory notebook
3 envelope folders

You will need to buy:
A foolscap size box file to keep everything in

You may like to have:
A lab coat and goggles of your own (these could be ordered through school)

Careers and progression

Many students who study the BTEC route consider a career in the research science field or as a technician. However, with the relevant work experience candidates could progress onto careers in management, teaching or higher level research.

Other possible career paths could include forensics, food manufacturing, environment and conservation, animal health and breeding, engineering and aerospace.

Entry requirements

To join the course you will need a minimum of C's at GCSE in English and Maths. You will also need a C at GCSE Science, a Pass in BTec First Certificate in Science, or a Pass in Btec First Diploma in Environmental Science.

Other routes may be considered, but the course will require long essays and numeracy skills.

Course Results

This course is being offered for the first time this year.

Enquiries

Any enquiries can be addressed to;

Miss V Blackwell
Castle Manor Business and Enterprise College
v.blackwell@castlemanor.lpplus.net

Ms A Weston: BTEC Subject Teacher
Castle Manor Business and Enterprise College
a.weston@castlemanor.lpplus.net