Science T Level

WHAT IS IT?

Specialising in Laboratory Sciences, the Science T Level at Birkenhead Sixth Form College is particularly suited to those interested in becoming a skilled laboratory worker, working in the science sector or wanting to be part of the next big scientific breakthrough. T Levels are new nationally recognised qualifications that are taken over two years after GCSEs. With a combination of classroom learning and work placements, these qualifications are career-focused and an alternative to A Levels, particularly appealing to students who have a Science career pathway in mind. One T Level is equivalent to 3 A Levels. Unlike other courses, T Levels blend technical learning with vital hands-on experience.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

All students will study a combination of the three sciences of Biology, Chemistry and Physics in detail, plus core components that are not taught in traditional science qualifications, such as:

working in the Science industry
policies and legislations
ethical issues
audits
clinical trials
good lab practice
standard operating procedures

The occupational specialism in Laboratory Sciences in Year 2 involves practical work:

16 essential practical projects, including planning, method, collecting data, analysing data and evaluating, covering all three sciences.

HOW DO THE PLACEMENTS WORK?

The College will arrange your placements and it will be in a real science setting with employers. You will typically do one day a week on placement and a six week block placement in Year 2. and full support will be given to you before, during and after your placement. Placements will be determined by the type of science that appeals most to the student and could be with the NHS at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, leading universities in the region, pharmaceutical companies and more.

HOW AM I ASSESSED?

Assessment will be through a combination of exams, projects and coursework. In year 1, there are two core exams in the summer term. There will also be a controlled project assessment. Year 2 is coursework assessment.

At the end of the two years, students will be awarded an overall grade of either Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*

A T Level Distinction* is worth the same as 3 A Levels at A* and will be recognised by universities and other education providers so students can choose to continue to study further

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

A minimum of three GCSE grade 4s including English Language, and two GCSE grade 5s including a Science/Sciences and Maths.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please complete the College online application form:
https://www.bsfc.ac.uk/application-form

Please note places are limited and, If necessary, applications may close early for this courses if demand is high.

Why choose a T Level?

They are a new option after GCSEs and nationally recognised by employers, apprenticeship providers and universities
Courses have been designed with leading sector experts to develop the relevant skills and knowledge for specific career paths
They give students the chance to learn what a real career is like while continuing to study
45 days of placements are included in the course and placements are arranged by the College