Applied Science AAQ

Applications Open: - 14th November 2025

Applications Close: - 30th April 2026

Entry Requirements: -We cater to the individual needs of each student, creating a program of study that meets their unique requirements. We offer a wide range of Level 3 qualifications, including A levels, allowing students to combine their interests with relevant courses for their future pathways. Each subject has specific entry requirements in addition to those set out below, and all students must receive a positive reference and maintain an end-of-year attendance record of 95% or higher to be offered a place in The Marsh Academy Sixth Form.

It is important to understand that all students are expected to attain a minimum of GCSE grade 4 in Mathematics and English by the time they leave school or college. Therefore, if a student has not achieved these grades, they are legally required to retake these subjects until they achieve the grade 4 or above or until they complete their programme of study.

For students unable to undertake a full Level 3 program, we offer a combination of qualifications across Level 3 and Level 2, depending on the qualifications gained in Year 11.

For students who achieve:

7+ GCSEs at grade 7+ can study four Level 3 courses.

5+ GCSEs at grade 5+ can study three Level 3 courses.

4 +GCSEs at grade 5+ can study two Level 3 courses and two Level 2 courses.

Level 3 Vocational Courses

5+ GCSEs at grade 4+ in English and maths GCSE to study three Level 3 vocation courses However, it is important to note that some Level 3 courses will have specific requirements in addition to those set out here.

This year, subjects have not been placed into fixed option blocks. Instead, they have been grouped by subject area to allow students greater flexibility in selecting the courses that best suit their interests and future goals. Once we have received students’ subject choices, we will create option blocks based on demand and subject compatibility. It is important to note that while The Marsh Academy aims to offer all courses listed in the prospectus, we do reserve the right to withdraw any course that does not attract sufficient interest. This approach ensures that our curriculum remains responsive, student-focused, and sustainable.

The Marsh Academy reserves the right to review student course offers on an individual basis.

How to apply:

Students who wish to apply for a place at the Marsh Academy Sixth Form and are currently a student at another school or college in Kent or East Sussex, must apply via the Kent Choices website application process (www.kentprospectus.co.uk). External applicants must ensure that the application is completely correctly by completing all sections of the application form in full for the application to be considered:

If you are applying from outside of Kent and are unable to register for Kent Choices, please use the external student application form which is available on the Sixth Form page of the Marsh Academy website.

Once the application has been made, we will contact you to discuss your application and invite you for interview. After the interview, conditional offers will made pending examination results. We ensure that students are kept up do date with events regarding Sixth Form during the remainder of the academic year.

On GCSE result day, students should contact the Marsh Academy with a record of GCSE results so that courses can be confirmed or adapted in line with the achieved results. Students will then attend a registration day early in September to process the required documentation.

This course blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, offering a broad and engaging introduction to biology, chemistry, and physics within real-world contexts. It is ideal for learners who prefer applied learning and want to develop scientific understanding alongside transferable skills such as research, analysis, and problem-solving.

The course is made up of four key units that provide a balanced and practical foundation across biology, chemistry, and physics:

Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science; Covers core concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics. Assessed through an external written exam.

Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Technique; Focuses on laboratory skills including titration, calorimetry, and chromatography. Assessed through internally marked coursework.

Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills; Develops planning, conducting, and evaluating scientific investigations. Assessed through an externally set task.

Unit 4: Optional Unit (e.g., Physiology of Human Body Systems, Genetics and Genetic Engineering, or Applications of Organic Chemistry); Allows students to specialise in an area of interest. Assessed through internally marked coursework.

Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science I – externally assessed written exam

Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques – internally assessed coursework

Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills – externally assessed task based on practical investigation

Unit 4: Optional Unit – internally assessed coursework (e.g. Physiology, Genetics, or Organic Chemistry)

Minimum of 5,5 in combined science or 4, 4, 5 in separate sciences and grade 5 in mathematics in addition to the published entry requirements

The qualification supports progression to university courses in biomedical science, forensic science, environmental science, healthcare, and pharmaceutical studies. It also opens doors to apprenticeships and employment in laboratory work, clinical support, and technical roles within the STEM sector. With its blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, Applied Science equips learners for success in both academic and professional scientific environments.