Applied Science Level 3 Extended Certificate

***** UPDATE FOR SEPTEMBER 2026 ENTRY *****

Thank you for your interest in our sixth form. We are no longer accepting applications. If you would like to be considered for a course in September, please take the following steps:

Current Sittingbourne School Students please speak to a member of the Sixth Form Team when you come to pick up your GCSE results on Thursday 20th August.

Students from other schools please bring us a paper copy of your results sheet on Friday 21st August 2026 between 10am and 12pm. Unfortunately we cannot accept a photograph of your results. Please come to the main school reception at Swanstree Avenue, Sittingbourne, Kent ME10 4NL.

Applications Open: Monday 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: Friday 17th July 2026

Entry Requirements: Our general entry requirements are:-

• A Levels – advanced courses, two year study programme, with an average entry requirement of at least five grade 5+ qualifications, including English and mathematics. Some subjects may have additional entry requirements.

• BTEC Level 3 – advanced courses, two year study programme, with an average entry requirement of at least five grade 4+ qualifications, including English and mathematics. Some subjects may have additional entry requirements.

• T Level - technical course, two year study programme, with an average entry requirement of at least five grade 5+ qualifications, including English and mathematics.

• BTEC Level 2 – One year programme, which could lead on to further studies, with an average entry requirement at least five grade 2 or above, including English and mathematics.

How to Apply: Please apply via Kent Choices

If applying to T Level Engineering, please include a second choice set of subjects within the same application.

Summary of skills students gain by studying this subject

The level 3 extended certificate in applied science provides students with a fundamental understanding of key scientific concepts in biology, chemistry and physics. The course will enhance the students’ understanding from GCSE and develop their knowledge to a higher level.

Course Specification

The course provides a variety of assessment methods, including a written examination on scientific theory (Unit 1), a portfolio based on scientific practical work completed at the centre (Unit 2) the examination on pre-release material (unit 3). During year 2 students will complete two mandatory units: The Human body system (unit 4) and Investigating Science (unit 5). Human body systems will be assessed by exam whilst Investigating Science is through collection of evidence of practical work in a portfolio format. One unit from the optional units must be chosen to fulfil the qualification; options include: Microbiology (unit 6a), Medical Physics (6b) and Organic Chemistry (6c).

Through the different styles of assessment pupils will develop a range of skills and will be required to independently take responsibility for their own development

Assessment

This course is assessed through 66% written examinations in the first year (Key scientific concepts and Science in the modern world), along with 33% portfolio work (Applied scientific techniques). In the second year there is a further examination (The Human body system), plus an optional unit of portfolio work (Investigating science, microbiology, medical physics or organic chemistry).

Additional Course Entry Requirements

Students need to achieve grade 6 in GCSE science, plus a grade 5 in mathematics.

Progression and career opportunities

Pupils will be able to study an array of scientific degree courses at university and have gained both practical skills and academic understanding that will aid them in undertaking apprenticeships or employment.