Applied Science Level 3 Extended Diploma

Why study this course at Cronton Sixth Form?
The focus of Applied Science tutors is to work with you to ensure you achieve your full potential. The course has been specifically designed to enhance the career opportunities for anyone wishing to work within the scientific industry and is particularly suited to those seeking an excellent basis for further study in biology and chemistry, or employment.

Our outstanding teaching and learning, laboratories and dedicated computer suite provide you with the tools needed to apply principles of theoretical science in a wide variety of real-life scenarios.

What will I study?
You will study two core units that will give you a solid foundation in biology, chemistry and physics. Study of contemporary issues provides opportunity to examine current issues that affect wider society and the way that science is communicated to the general public and to scientists. Practical skills and broader knowledge will be developed through study of topics such as inorganic, organic and industrial chemistry, physiology, genetics and microbiology.

How will I be assessed?
Through a variety of practical methods, presentations, poster work, internally assessed assignments, two external examinations and two external assessments. You will use this to build a portfolio of evidence throughout your two years.

Entry Requirements:
5 GCSE Grades 9 – 4 must include a Grade 4 in English Language and Maths and a Grade 4 in Science (Core and Additional or equivalent BTEC).

Can I study this course if I have not taken it at GCSE?
As part of our entry criteria all students must attain a minimum of a Grade 4 in Science (Core and Additional / Combined), two separate sciences or equivalent BTEC.

Enrichment Opportunities:
We offer a variety of enrichment choices which complement the Applied Science programme including: specialist speakers, trips and visits to relevant organisations and online meetings and workshops. You will take part in a work experience placement at the end of the first year of the course.

Centre of Excellence in STEM
Cronton Sixth Form College has created a Centre of Excellence for Advanced Level Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths courses. This Centre of Excellence has been developed through the recruitment of some of the best teaching staff in the country, the building of our new state of the art IDEA Centre and science labs, and the expansion of our extra-curricular activities that support applications to the most prestigious universities.

What can this course lead on to?
With a diverse range of opportunities open to them, many of our students progress to university and choose courses such as marine biology, biological science, biochemistry, biomedical science, genetics, microbiology, pharmaceutical science, forensic science, criminology, psychology, foundation physics, nursing, teaching, paramedic science. Students also progress to apprenticeships in the science industry or find employment in the science industry.

Any additional costs?
We suggest you purchase a lab coat (approximately £20). There are costs associated with trips and visits and the provision of course revision book (approx. £50 for the year). You will always be given advance warning of these.

Outstanding Facilities
The IDEA Centre is a unique STEM facility which offers students innovative training facilities including an advanced manufacturing workshop, a digital and electronics suite, a metrology suite, a process control workshop, a health and fitness suite, a project management suite, meeting rooms, a 3D modelling suite and an Industry 4.0 suite which all prepare students for the Industry 4.0 trend of automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies.