Laboratory Sciences – T-Level (Science) – Level 3

More about the course

This course is designed to set you apart and from A level and BTEC Applied Science courses. Recognised by all universities and enthusiastically welcomed by our local and regional employers, this course will make you an attractive prospect for employment or higher study.

The course provides you with the equivalent of 3 A levels and 9 weeks of high-quality industrial placement. We have partnerships with a number commercial laboratories here in the local area, as well as the NHS.

T Level Science teaches the core knowledge and skills needed to begin a career in science. The concepts covered apply to all scientific occupations, and you will complete an occupational specialism in
one of the following:
• laboratory sciences
• food sciences
• metrology sciences

Our industrial partners have supported how this programme can develop the ‘pipeline’ of talented young people into their businesses whilst simultaneously enabling potential recruitment in a cost-effective way.

Entry requirements

You will ordinarily require a minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English and maths and a grade 4 in science

Please note that entry requirements and course offer may be subject to change at any time.

What will I achieve?

Upon successful completion of this course you will achieve a Level 3 NCFE T-Level in Science (Laboratory Sciences). This is the equivalent to 3 A Levels and up to 168 UCAS points.

What will I learn?

Working within the health and science sector
Health, safety and environmental regulations in the health and science sector and the application in the workplace
Managing information and data within the health and science sector
Ethics
Good scientific and clinical practice
Scientific methodology
Experimental equipment and techniques which will develop the skills to work in a laboratory
Core science concepts; advanced studies in microbiology, biochemistry, chemistry and physics
Further science concepts; molecular biology & genetics, analytical chemistry, instrumental analysis, fluid dynamics, pressure laws and experimental design
Project design, investigation, analysis & evaluation of data, team working and presentation (Employer Set Project)

How is the course taught?

The course is taught by a team of staff with extensive industrial experience and postgraduate qualifications in scientific research & development. This guarantees that what you learn will be taught by staff who have hands on experience with the theory and practical techniques that you will master during the course.

You will develop your competencies via extended practical sessions underpinned by theory lessons. There are ample opportunities to work in groups as well as individually.

What you learn over the course of this programme is strongly consolidated by 9 weeks of industrial placement with our partner organisations.

How am I assessed?

You will be assessed by us throughout the course as this helps you to identify areas for improvement.

External Assessments in Year 1 include the Employer Set Project in May and written examinations in June.

External Assessments in Year 2 are carried out by a 25 hour Synoptic Assessment beginning in March and ending in June.

In both cases we will work proactively and extensively with you in preparation for your examinations.

Work experience opportunities

This course provides you with the equivalent of 3 A levels and 9 weeks of high-quality industrial placement in a number of commercial or NHS laboratories in and around Carlisle. Working with a number of local and regional employers we continue to develop a programme that is at once pertinent to industry needs and which supports & improves your personal and professional progression.

English and Maths

English, maths and digital skills are vital to all roles in science and these are embedded throughout the course to help you prepare for working in the industry.

Where can I progress?

On successful completion of your T-Level in Science, this course will provide you with the skills, motivation and confidence you need in order to progress and achieve your career goals. This will significantly increase your chances of post-education employment, a place on a higher level apprenticeship, or assist in providing UCAS points for university. It develops the core competencies required to pursue a career in laboratory science or further study at university.

Course Costs

If you are aged 16-18 when you begin your course you are likely to be eligible for free tuition. Detailed information can be found within the financial support section.