Environmental Science A Level [Y1]

This course is suitable for those students who have a keen interest in the sustainability of our planet, and who want to explore as to what extent human activity is having on planet Earth. As a student you will have the opportunity to gain insights and understanding of how geographical and biological components are interrelated in terms of the environment. This scientific subject will lead you to both answers and more questions, and sits particularly well alongside subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Geography. If you enjoy science, and you have a real passion and interest in the environment, then this is the A level course for you.

You will study a wide range of topics over the 2 year programme of study. You will learn and develop knowledge in key environmental science topics. These include how the main conditions which allowed early life to develop and survive on planet Earth came about, whilst also exploring how the presence of life on Earth has brought about environmental change. You will study the importance of the conservation of biodiversity, and in particular how humans influence biodiversity. You will also study a range of pollutants to help analyse their environmental impacts and to plan control strategies. You shall gain an appreciation of the importance of basing decisions on reliable data in order to guarantee evidence based analysis. You shall become equipped with broader relevant knowledge about how society makes decisions about environmental issues and how these contribute to the success of the economy and society

You will be assessed by your teacher at regular intervals during the two years using a combination of homework assignments, short tests, and longer tests. There are 2, 3 hour long exams at the end of year 2.

Our general entry criteria to study 3 A-Levels is: Minimum five GCSEs grade 4-9 with English Language or Maths at grade 5. For a mixed Level 3 programme the criteria are: Minimum five GCSEs grade 4-9 with English Language or Maths at grade 4. Subject specific entry criteria apply: A GCSE grade 5 in Maths and grade 5 in a Science subject.

Your interest in the environment could take you along a number of career paths, including: ecology, wildlife conservation, environmental impact assessment, aquaculture, local government, town planning and transport design. If you choose to progress into higher education you will have opportunities to enter new fields such as ecotoxicology, climatology, geobiology or marine biology.