Are you a recent school-leaver wanting a career in science, however not quite ready for a Level 3 course? This is a one-year practical, work related course which will prepare you for a career in science or progression to further study. It will give you a good understanding of the three main areas of science: biology, physics and chemistry. You will explore science as an industry, its related services and what jobs and careers are available.
You will get hands-on experience in the laboratory where you will develop your scientific skills. In chemistry you will learn to identify and analyse solutions and compounds. In physics you will undertake experiments involving electricity, circuits, forces and more. In biology you will learn about foods, grow bacterial cultures, test plant tissue for DNA and look at disease. You will also attend English and maths classes as part of the programme and have weekly tutorials to support you.
Students will need to have one of the following:-
• A BTEC Foundation Certificate in a related subject and GCSE maths & English at Grade 3.
• Four GCSEs at grade 3 including: maths English and science
Students who do not meet this criteria may enrol on the Level 1 course where you will complete an Introductory Diploma in Science as well as a qualification in digital skills.
All students will also be required to attend and satisfactorily complete a formal induction period.
Students who successfully pass the course, including maths and English will be able to progress onto the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied Science/Technology or to the new T Level in Health & Science (Lab Science). Alternatively, you may want to progress into entry-level employment such as an assistant technician, lab assistant or an apprenticeship in lab science.
At South & City College Birmingham, we offer a wide range of courses for most age groups.
School Leavers: For learners who are between the ages of 16 to 18, studies will be free.
Adults: For learners who are aged 19 or over, the cost of study will depend on the course or programme that you choose. Some courses may even be free*. If the course is not free, students aged 19 at the start of their programme who wish to study need to either pay their course fees, or take out an Advanced Learning Loan.
*Eligibility criteria applies. There may be an exception for students aged 19 or over that are taking their first full Level 3 qualifications (equivalent to A Levels and Access to HE Diplomas), who could be supported by the Learner Support Fund, or free adult course funded by the WMCA. To find out what financial support is available to you or whether your course is free, call our friendly admissions team on 0121 694 5000 during office hours, or email us via: admissions-shared@sccb.ac.uk, we look forward to hearing from you.
Full details regarding our adult funding, or learner loans can be found on our website via: Money Matters
Higher Education: If you are planning to undertake one of our Higher Education courses you can apply for a loan with Student Finance England, or apply for an Advanced Learner Loan with the college to support towards your course fees. Adults may be eligible for FREE tuition through the WMCA's free courses for jobs offer.
Full details regarding our adult funding, or learner loans can be found on our website via: Money Matters
Enquire via our website today to chat to one of our Admissions team and make your right choice with South and City College Birmingham. Whatever your passion, we are here to help you land on your dream career path. Email: admissions-shared@sccb.ac.uk to find out what financial support is available. With various funds, loans and bursaries on offer, we may be able to help with travel expenses & childcare costs.
This is a practical and work related course. There is a mix of practical, tutorials and classroom work.