Applied Science

Applied Science

Cambridge Advanced National (AAQ) in Applied Science  

Pathways offered: Certificate (AS-size) and Extended Certificate (A level-size) 

Course Summary 

Applied Science at Oakes is where real-world science meets your future. You’ll get hands-on with serious lab work, field investigations and medical physics tech, while building the theory you need to go further. If you like practicals, solving problems, and seeing how science actually works in healthcare, forensics, the environment and industry- this course is for you. You’ll study core Biology, Chemistry and Physics concepts plus the skills scientists actually use 

Why you’ll love it..! 

• Lower exam load than traditional A levels: Extended Certificate ≈ 40% exams / 60% coursework- so it doesn’t all hinge on one exam day. 

• Timetabled sensibly: exam sittings are typically in January and June, reducing pressure spikes and giving you planning headroom. 

• Play to your strengths: choose optional units that match your interests  

• Uni & employer friendly: Accepted by universities at same value as A-Levels including the Russel Group despite having less examinations. 

Course Details 

Year 12 

• F180 – Fundamentals of Science (Examined unit): 

• Biology: cell structure & microscopy; bioenergetics; biological molecules; biodiversity & ecosystems. 

• Chemistry: atomic structure & periodic table; quantitative chemistry; structure & bonding; rates & enthalpy. 

• Physics: electricity; motion; medical physics. 

Year 13: 

• F181 – Science in Society (Examined unit) (Extended Certificate only): what scientists do; handling scientific data; how new science develops; communicating science responsibly. 

• F182 – Investigating Science (Coursework): plan, risk assess and carry out your own investigation; analyse, present and evaluate your results like a real research scientist! Non-examined unit.  

Optional units (pick two if you take the Extended Certificate) 

• F183 – Analytical Techniques in Chemistry (Assignment): separation, purification, qualitative and quantitative analysis, intro to spectroscopy. 

• F184 – Environmental Studies (Assignment): ecosystems, human impacts, fieldwork methods, waste and environmental management. 

• F185 – Forensic Biology (Assignment): evidence types, microscopy of cells/tissues, scene-to-lab workflow, interpreting biological evidence. 

• F186 – Medical Physics (Assignment): imaging and therapy—from ultrasound and MRI to radiotherapy planning and safety. 

How will it be delivered and assessed? 

• Certificate: 50% exam (F180) and 50% assignment (F182). 

• Extended Certificate: 40% exam (F180 & F181) and 60% assignments (F182 + two optional units). 

• Exams are sat in January and/or June. Assignments are set tasks you complete under teacher guidance with clear criteria.
   

Entry requirements 

The minimum requirement is 7 GCSE or equivalent passes at grades 9-4 in an appropriate range of subjects, including English Language at grade 4 or above. 

• Combined or Separate Sciences at Grade 5-5. 

• GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4+ recommended. 

Your next steps… 

You could take this course to complement other advanced level courses that may overlap such as other AAQ’s and any other A-level Science subject. 

This AAQ opens doors. Popular progression routes include: 

• Degrees: This has been endorsed by universities and will be accepted for admissions including in the Russell Group: Biomedical Science, Life Sciences, Forensic Science, Environmental Science, Allied Health & Nursing and many more! This course gives students a lot of flexibility there.  
• Apprenticeships and lab-based roles where practical competence and data skills matter. 

For further information you may also contact: 

Applied.Science@netherhallschool.org 

Mr S, K-Don, MSET,QTLS.  

Head of Vocational Sciences.