The extended certificate is equivalent in size to one A Level. Assignments, units and final marks will be awarded as (A Level equivalent grade): Pass (E), merit (C), distinction (A).

This biology-based course is specifically aimed at young people wanting to study a medically related or biomedical course at university, take up an apprenticeship or career straight after school. It will complement and accompany the AAQ in applied science particularly well for anyone interested in a medical based career.

This course requires students to complete both examinations and assignments. The course is made up of four units of work covering different aspects of biology. This course is best suited to those who are able to learn facts for examinations, but also like to complete extended project work over a period of weeks.

What do I need to study Science Level 3 BTEC?

Grade 5,5 in Combined Science, or if triple award grade 5 in Biology and Grade 5 in Chemistry GCSE, and Grade 5 in Mathematics and Grade 4 in English.

What will I learn?

Unit 1: Principles of human physiology, anatomy and pathology

This unit covers the basic principles of cells and the molecules that make up cells. These basics are then extended in the study of cell division, nerves and muscles and organs including the heart, lungs and kidneys and aspects of digestion. Disorders and diseases of many of the systems are also covered

Unit 2: Health issues and scientific reporting

This unit looks at how the different organs studied in unit 1 are checked and measured in medical practice. Immunity and protein synthesis is covered in detail and the impact of cancer and how it can be treated is also covered.

Units 1 and 2 are externally examined. The principles of human physiology, anatomy and pathology will be taught in Year 12 with the exam taken in the summer of Year 12. Health issues and scientific reporting will be taught largely in Year 13 and will be examined in the summer of Year 13.

Unit 3: Practical microbiology and infectious diseases: This unit is internally assessed as written reports. It is broken down into 4 sections A-D and will run alongside the unit 2, to be taught in Year 13.

Optional unit: Although this is an optional unit, the marks achieved add to the final overall grade. It is the only unit that can be failed and a pass grade still achieved. This unit is internally assessed as written reports. It is broken down into four sections A-D. It will be carried out in Year 12 and will run alongside and after the theory taught in unit 1. There are three possible topics that we could cover on one of the following; disease diagnosis and treatment, biomedical science or human reproduction. The exact topic has not yet been chosen.

As well as learning a strong base of scientific knowledge in biology, you will learn a variety of laboratory techniques, how to process and analyse data and improve method and technique. You will learn how to research, reference and write reports, essential skills for a university degree.

How will I be taught?

The majority of your lessons will be in laboratories where you’ll be taught theory, carry out practical experiments and write up scientific reports. Some of the assignment work will be completed outside of lessons.

How will I be assessed?

There are a two assessment methods; examinations and written coursework. You will be assessed in both years with assignments that must be completed and passed. For the AAQ every piece of work is marked on its own merits and that mark will affect your final grade. This means you need to put continued effort into your studies throughout the whole of two years and good attendance is essential.

What can I do next?

This course is the equivalent of one A Level and is worth up to 56 UCAS points depending on your grades. This allows progression to related degree programmes at universities across the country. Alternatively, you may seek employment in industry or the NHS. This course would prepare someone for an apprenticeship.