Environmental Science A Level

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED FOR SEPTEMBER 2026 ENTRY.

Entry Requirements - Please follow the link and download our Options Guide to view the entry requirements for Sixth Form and individual subjects https://www.queenelizabeths.kent.sch.uk/learning/sixth-form/thinking-about-joining-queen-elizabeths-grammar-school-for-sixth-form/

How to Apply -

Internals - Google Form - Speak to Mr Cowlam or Mrs Gossling

Externals - Through Kent Choices

https://www.queenelizabeths.kent.sch.uk/learning/sixth-form/applying-to-the-sixth-form/

You must select a minimum AND maximum of 5 subject choices:

Option A - 3 main subject choices* + an enhancement subject choice** + a reserve subject choice***

Option B - 4 main subject choices + a reserve subject choice

*a main subject choice is a full A Level subject e.g Mathematics/Geography/Physics/German etc
** an enhancement subject choice is either EPQ, Maths in Context or Trinity Acting Exams
***a reserve choice can be either a full A Level or another enhancement option

AQA Level 3

This is a two year course consisting of 10 lessons a fortnight plus an expectation of further study in your own time.

Skills that will be developed

• A balanced and informed understanding of how human society manages and impacts on the natural systems and biodiversity on which we rely for resources and life support.
• The ability to analyse, interpret and draw conclusions based on reliable evidence-based information and quantitative data.
• Practical skills in planning and implementing investigations to inform environmental decision making. Students gain first hand experience of a variety of sampling techniques in the laboratory and in the field.

What will you learn?

There are two main areas of study:

1. The living environment, biological resources and sustainability:

• Threats to biodiversity and wildlife conservation efforts from Antarctica to the tropics.
• The challenges and solutions in providing food and forest resources to a growing population without damaging the planet's life support systems.

2. The physical environment, energy resources and pollution:

• Exploitation and management of minerals, soil, water and energy resources.
• Properties of pollutants and strategies to minimise problems.

Environmental issues such as melting ice sheets, coral reef decline and soil erosion are explored, with the emphasis on how to find solutions to these environmental problems through sustainable management and use of new technology. The applied nature of the subject means that there are many opportunities to relate topics to everyday issues and current affairs in the UK and globally.

Students gain first hand experience of a variety of sampling techniques in a range of habitats. There are two final written exams, 15% of which is an assessment of practical skills. All students must complete a minimum of four days of fieldwork.

Enrichment

There will be opportunities for field trips, meeting visiting speakers and involvement with local community initiatives. Students are encouraged to join EcoQuEST and or QE's Green Group to research and develop projects beyond the syllabus.

Content delivery

A combination of classroom based learning, case studies, laboratory practicals and fieldwork. Students undertake a range of experimental and investigative activities, including appropriate risk management in a range of habitats and environmental contexts.

How is it assessed?

Two final written exams, 15% of which is an assessment of practical skills. All students must complete a minimum of four days of fieldwork.

You must achieve a grade 6 or better in any science subject or grade 76 Combined Science. A grade 6 or better in Maths is highly recommended.

What happens when you have finished?

The environment is being increasingly prioritised in policy and practice around the globe and is a growing concern among young people. As such Environmental Science can complement any combination of A level subjects. At A level, it is accepted as relevant science in environment related degrees including oceanography, geology, marine zoology and many more. It is also a named second or third subject for degrees from medicine to psychology, engineering and sustainable architecture.