We are excited to start the new national BTECs referred to as advanced additional qualifications or AAQs. We will follow the AAQ BTEC level 3 extended certificate in Medical Science. It is the equivalent of one A level and can be studied alongside other BTECs or A levels.  

The core and specialist medical science knowledge, understanding and skills that students develop throughout the course, create a good foundation for transition to related degrees. Skills such as critical thinking and independent learning help students to be better prepared for the self-directed learning approach used in higher education and become more open minded to learning. Research skills, in combination with the other transferable skills, create a strong foundation for academic success. 

This course is designed to lead onto further study at degree level for careers in medicine such as paramedic science, midwifery, physiotherapy, biomedical sciences, biomedical research, radiography and theater technician. In combination with appropriate A levels it can also prepare for careers in engineering and research. BTEC Nationals are widely recognized by higher education and industry, providing students with meaningful theory-based and practical learning experiences. The AAQ allows students to study the principles and applications of medical sciences across the examined units and enables students to further explore other areas in more detail through internally assessed coursework modules.  

This course is designed to be taken alongside A Levels or other Level 3 applied qualifications. Subjects such as physical education, sociology, psychology, chemistry, child development, physics and maths would make a good combination. 

Course Organisation: 

• We will be following the Pearson Level 3 AAQ BREC National (Extended Certificate) in Medical Science  

• You will complete a baseline test in September to check your understanding of key topics  

• You will sit two exams; one at the end of year 12 with re-sit opportunities in Y13 and the second exam in January of Y13, with a re-sit opportunity in the summer. 

• In Y13, you will complete two units assessed by coursework 

Lesson information and expectations:  

• You will attend 4 x 60 minute lessons each week 

• Lessons and assessments will consist of both practical skills and theory content  

• Homework must be completed and handed in on time  

• Tests for the examined unit will take place at the end of each topic  

• Coursework units are broken down into components and deadlines must be met in order to pass.   

Specification at a glance 

Unit 1: In this unit, you will study how the human body functions at a cellular and tissue level. You will go on to gain understanding of the various organ systems that comprise the human body – nervous, endocrine musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal and digestive systems – and gain some insight into how these systems interrelate. 

Unit 2: ln this unit you will be learning about contemporary health issues, including cancer and genetic disorders, alongside developing knowledge about scientific analysis, evaluation and reporting. 

Unit 3: In this unit, you will carry out your own investigation into the effect of antimicrobial agents on the growth of microorganisms. 

Unit 4: Undertake research to support the production materials discussing the organisation and function of the human reproductive system. 

 

Exam Board: Pearson

Entry Requirements: 5 in Biology, 4 in chemistry and 4 in physics, 4 in English Lit or Lang, 4 in Maths 

Suitable course if you are interested in: medicine, human biology, disease, medical research, pharmacy, health and social care 

Leading to a career in: medicine, veterinary fields and pharmacy, biomedical sciences, forensics, agriculture and animal care, food technology, health and social care, research, epidemiology. 

BTEC Science is particularly suitable for progression onto vocational, science-based degree programmes such as Nursing or Applied Science. 

This subject goes well with chemistry, physics, PE, health and social care, psychology