Our AAQ Applied Science course aims to develop students who are scientifically literate, practically skilled, and ready to contribute meaningfully to science-related careers and further education.
We seek to:
Foster Scientific Curiosity and Critical Thinking: Students will develop the ability to ask pertinent questions, analyse complex problems, and evaluate evidence critically. Through hands-on investigation and real-world applications, they will understand how scientific principles underpin everyday phenomena and technological advances.
Build Practical and Technical Skills: Our curriculum emphasises practical work that mirrors professional scientific environments. Students will master laboratory techniques, use industry-standard equipment, and develop the precision and safety awareness essential for scientific careers.
Prepare Students for Further Study and Employment: The course provides robust preparation for Level 3 qualifications in sciences, health sciences, and related fields. Equally, it equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for immediate entry into science-related apprenticeships and employment.
Develop Professional Behaviours and Communication Skills: Students will learn to work collaboratively, communicate scientific ideas effectively to diverse audiences, and demonstrate the professional standards expected in scientific workplaces.
Miss Aughton – b.aughton@derbycathedralschool.org.uk
Mr Shooter – m.shooter@derbycathedralschool.org.uk
Mrs Rashid – u.rashid@derbycathedralschool.org.uk
Assessment:
Year 12:
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Principles and Applications of Biology (60 credits)
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Principles and Applications of Physics (60 credits)
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Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques—Biology (30 credits)
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Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques—Physics (30 credits)
Year 13:
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Principles and Applications of Chemistry (60 credits)
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Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques—Chemistry (30 credits)
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Contemporary Issues in Science (90 credits)
Assessment Method:
12: |
Principles and Applications of Biology |
External Exam - 1 hour (50 marks) |
12: |
Principles and Applications of Physics |
External Exam - 1 hour (50 marks) |
12: |
Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques — Biology |
Internal Coursework |
12: |
Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques — Physics |
Internal Coursework |
13: |
Principles and Applications of Chemistry |
External Exam - 1 hour (50 marks) |
13: |
Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques — Chemistry |
Internal Coursework |
13: |
Contemporary Issues in Science |
Internal Coursework |
Homework:
Students will be expected to complete weekly revision tasks for all external components for homework.
Students will be expected to complete their internal assessment coursework independently for homework.
As this is a new course, revision materials are currently limited.
Specification:
https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/btec-nationals/applied-science-aaq.html
Revision guide to be published in November 2025
Coming soon! - Page under development
Coming soon! - Page under development