For the 2009/10 academic year, more than 100,000 learners have enrolled on a BTEC in Applied Science. New units for 2010 means Applied Science BTECs are even easier for you to teach. There is in addition a new smaller qualification, together with an increased range of new optional units in the Level 2 BTEC First which means increased availability of qualifications. All in all, an unbeatable BTEC Applied Science package.
Progression for learners
A BTEC in Applied Science can help your students achieve their full potential. Learners are rewarded along the way for consistent hard work and demonstration of their knowledge. A BTEC in Applied Science offers active learning in a vocational context and builds confidence, competence and motivation in your learners.
Flexible to fit around your curriculum
Some learners are incredibly focused, determined to make a success of their chosen career in Applied Science. For others, it’s not so clear cut. A BTEC is a flexible qualification, made up of a number of units, which are determined by the level and size being studied. These units can be taken independently or alongside more traditional qualifications, to suit the interests and the aspirations of the learner. Teachers and tutors can work together to plan and create their own resources or use our new and improved range of support materials.
Awards that are recognised and understood
The BTECs in Applied Science are recognised and respected by employers, professional institutions and higher education establishments alike. And through our work with sector skills councils (SSCs) we’ve made sure our BTECs are closely attuned to the needs of the employers in the science marketplace.
A clear progression pathway
With our BTEC Nationals in Applied Science, Edexcel is the only awarding body to offer a science qualification at Level 3.
Engaging for everyone
Students, of all abilities, often fail to see the link between what they learn in an academic sense and the world of work. BTECs in Applied Science change all that. The vocational learning style is completely different from the more traditional routes. Students may research their topics and present results in a wide variety of ways other than written text. They don’t have to work alone – group interaction can often play a part, for example through teamwork and role-play. BTECs can engage and enhance the performance of all learners, who recognise that the skills they are developing are those that employers will value. They are learning in a practical way without the need to commit to an apprenticeship.
Rewarding hard work and effort
Students learn best when they can apply their own knowledge, skills and enthusiasm to a subject. In a subject like Applied Science, and in others, it’s often the case that learners are already motivated, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. It’s right that this natural energy can be focused and rewarded. A BTEC in Applied Science allows it to happen. Hard work is rewarded. Assessment is ongoing, motivating students to analyse and improve their own performance.
Easier to assess
It is a straightforward matter for a teacher to judge whether a student has achieved what’s required for a pass, merit or distinction.
Courses to support part-time and workplace learners
Our BTECs in Applied Science are not only for those in full-time education. Those already employed in the Applied Science sector can study for the BTEC Level 2 or BTEC Level 3 on a part-time basis. Knowledge and expertise gained in the workplace is valued and can play a part in the assessment methodology. School leavers and adults alike can continue to pursue an interest and a desire to learn through the BTEC Level 3 Nationals in Applied Science. These courses are designed to motivate, building on the achievements from Key Stage 4 or other level 2 qualifications for those that wish to explore a vocational route at level 3.
More choice of optional units
BTEC Level 2 Firsts now include new and interesting optional units such as Astronomy, Electronics, Psychology, Biotechnology, Chemical Analysis and Detection, and Designing and Making Devices. These new units complement GCSE provision and sector skills requirements. BTEC Level 3 Nationals now include new optional units in Astronomy and Geology. The Nationals have maintained their Forensic and Medical pathway as well as a generic Applied Science route, which contains all units previously within the Laboratory and Industrial Science pathway.
Local and national support
We work closely with local authorities across the country in setting up local support groups to help you implement and tailor the BTECs in Applied Science to meet your needs. Use your local group to communicate with nearby centres and explore better ways to teach the BTEC Science. For direct assistance in implementing and teaching the BTECs, a subject advisor for Applied Science is available at every step of the way.
Unrivalled help and support
If you are new to BTECs, you can feel reassured in the knowledge that a robust support structure is set in place. We’re here to offer curriculum and qualification updates, local training and network opportunities, plus advice, guidance and support. We also have a subject advisor for Applied Science who you can contact directly with any queries or advice you may need in implementing BTECs in your centre.