Departmental contact

Mrs Tonry – [email protected]

Examining board & Qualification

OCR – Level 3 AAQ

Entry requirements

Please see current prospectus for further information

WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?

This qualification provides you with an understanding of applied science practical techniques and applications. Through a combination of theoretical study and hands on experience, you will develop the necessary knowledge and skills that can support progression to higher education study.

You might be interested in this qualification if you want to develop key theoretical knowledge and understanding of the subject, but also apply what you learn to different situations and contexts and practical tasks, such as:

• Researching the fundamentals of science
• Planning and performing laboratory investigations

This qualification will complement other learning that you’re completing at Key Stage 5.

It will be part of your studies along with two further Level 3 qualifications.

WHAT SKILLS WILL I DEVELOP?

The qualification will help you develop independence and confidence in using skills that are relevant to the sector and that prepare you for progressing to university courses where independent study skills are needed.

You will develop the following transferable skills that can be used in both higher education and other life and work situations:

• Communicating effectively with individuals or groups.
• Researching topic areas and recording research sources, then using them to interpret findings and present evidence.
• Problem solving when matching and analysing data.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

OCR Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification Cambridge Advanced National in Applied Science (Extended Certificate)

For this qualification, students must complete five units:

• Two mandatory externally assessed units
• one mandatory NEA unit
• two optional NEA units

Includes aspects of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics alongside science practical skills, option units will cover Forensic Biology which links to the previous Forensic qualification offered.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

The qualification is made up of 50% examined content and 50% non examined assessment (NEA) content.

This approach supports you to develop both theoretical knowledge and understanding and the skills needed to apply it in different contexts, helping you to develop a broad and relevant set of skills and experiences

WHAT ARE MY POST-18 OPTIONS?

Taken alongside other qualifications, this course will prepare students for progression to a wider range of degree programmes.

Learners should always check the entry requirements with specific higher education providers.