Applied Science BTEC
The AAQ (new BTEC) in Applied Science is a course covering all three sciences. It is more vocational in approach, and is ideal for students more adept at continuous assessment.
The course is equivalent in size to one A Level and is studied over two years. Students are able to achieve grades from Pass to Distinction* with a Distinction* being awarded a maximum of 56 UCAS Points (equivalent to an A* at A Level).
The Applied Science AAQ aims to give students a good general grounding in biology, chemistry and physics in order to support them to pursue further scientific studies or to access a scientific career. The course studies the principles and applications of biology, chemistry and physics, as well as practical scientific procedures and techniques, so there is a significant emphasis on practical work. The course aims to prepare students for the future world of work by incorporating personal transferable skills as well as digital and sustainability skills.
The Applied Science AAQ comprises four compulsory units (of which the first three are externally assessed):
- Unit 1 – Principles and Applications of Biology
- Unit 2 – Principles and Applications of Chemistry
- Unit 3 – Principles and Applications of Physics
- Unit 4 – Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
Plus one of two optional units:
- Unit 5 – Scientific Investigation Skills
- Unit 6 – Contemporary Issues in Science
Students go on to study a huge variety of science and non-science related degrees at University. The most recent science based destinations of our Aquinas students were:
YouGov research shows that 62% of large companies have recruited employees with vocational qualifications. What’s more, well over 100,000 vocational students apply to UK universities every year and the current vocational courses have been accepted by over 150 UK universities and higher education institutes for relevant degree programmes in combination with other vocational qualifications and/or A Levels.
There will be opportunities over the course to hear from professionals about their jobs in the science sector and a focus placed on the skills achieved whilst studying Applied Science that students will be able to use in their future career(s).
Related Courses
Skip CoursesBiology
Biology involves the study of a wide range of exciting topics, ranging from molecular biology to the study of ecosystems and from micro-organisms to mammoths. Biology is never far from[...]
Chemistry
Chemistry is a linear A level course that requires, and develops, a variety of skills from mathematical calculations and problem solving to analysis and practical skills.
Environmental Science
This course provides an ideal base for employment, for example, ecology and wildlife conservation, land management, town planning, architecture, forestry, geology or climatology. Students could work for a charity like[...]
Geography
Geography has modules in physical and human geography. Students develop skills in mathematics, analysis and extended writing. Practical work within the specification is one of the attractions of Geography and[...]
Geology
The WJEC-Eduqas A Level in Geology is a linear course with a final exam at the end of two years. It provides a comprehensive coverage of the knowledge and understanding[...]
Mathematics
This course is for those who enjoy the challenges of mathematics and want an A level which is highly thought of by both employers and universities.
Physics
The Advancing Physics course shows how Physics is exciting, always developing, of great practical use in many ways and in many careers, as well as probing some of the deepest[...]
Statistics
Using and understanding data is becoming increasingly important in many areas of study and employment. Understanding of statistics is a crucial skill, and this A Level aims to give students[...]
Latest From Aquinas
In February, 29 students and 4 staff went on a trip of a lifetime to Mumbai to work with the children at the Prem Dan Garden school and also the girls hostel. This was the 20th trip, which made it extra special.
Before the half term break, A level German students took part in an exchange trip to Lübeck, where they attended the Katharineum school. Being fully immersed in the language provided them with a valuable opportunity to enhance their listening skills.
Politics students recently visited a snowy Washington DC is support of their US Government and Politics studies. Perhaps the highlight of the trip was a visit to the New York Times’ Washington Bureau to meet with two of their senior journalists, Special Correspondent Elisabeth Bumiller and White House Correspondent, Zolan Kanno-Youngs.
This week the Head of Theology was invited into St Thomas More, Denton, to deliver a Theology A-Level taster session to their year 10 and year 11 pupils. The pupils studied miracles, and looked at different religious and non-religious definitions of a miracle. The St Thomas More pupils were polite, inquisitive and offered some very […]
