BTEC Level 3 qualifications are designed to provide highly specialist work-related qualifications in a range of vocational sectors. They give learners the knowledge, understanding and skills that they need to prepare for employment. The two year course is a nationally recognised qualification equivalent to 1 A* - E grade at A Level. The teaching for the course will involve a mixture of teaching, practical work, personal research, group research, discussion, and visits to local businesses. The course consists of an even mix of biology, chemistry, and physics topics. In the first year of study students will complete two mandatory units. BTEC Level 3 Certificate in Applied Science can be gained at the end of the year pending their successful completion. In the second year students will go on to complete a further two optional units, successful completion of which will result in achievement of Edexcel BTEC Level 3 extended certificate in Applied Science.