Science T Level Level 3 Full-time (FHSC)

The Level 3 Science (Laboratory Sciences) T Level is a two year programme designed for those aged 16–19 who wish to progress into skilled employment, apprenticeships, or Higher Education within the science sector. The programme combines rigorous classroom learning with substantial practical activity and a minimum of 315 hours of industry placement. It is aligned to employer defined standards and reflects current and emerging practices within laboratory science contexts.

The programme is designed to develop you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for technical roles within laboratory‑based science industries. The programme combines in‑depth classroom learning with extensive practical laboratory activity, ensuring you gain a strong understanding of biological, chemical and physical principles alongside sector‑specific professional practice.

You will develop competence in core laboratory techniques, scientific investigation, data handling and analysis, and the application of health, safety, and regulatory requirements. Teaching is contextualised through real‑world laboratory scenarios and is supported by an Employer Set Project, enabling you to apply your knowledge and transferable skills such as research, problem solving, teamwork and communication to authentic industry‑focused tasks.

A substantial industry placement of 315 hours, forms an integral part of the programme, allowing you to apply your skills in a professional laboratory environment and develop confidence, employability skills and occupational behaviours expected by employers. On completion, you are well prepared for progression into skilled employment, Higher or Degree apprenticeships, or laboratory‑based Higher Education pathways.

You will study two mandatory components:

Core Component

This component develops the underpinning scientific knowledge, skills and behaviours required across the science sector, including key principles from biology, chemistry, and physics, alongside an understanding of professional practice, ethics, regulation, and quality systems.

Core transferable skills are developed and assessed through the Employer Set Project (ESP), including project management, research, problem solving, communication, teamwork, and reflective evaluation.

Occupational Specialism

You will specialise in Laboratory Sciences, developing applied technical skills, professional behaviours and decision making through authentic laboratory-based activities.

The Core Component is assessed through three externally assessed written examinations (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) and one externally set and marked Employer Set Project (ESP).

The Occupational Specialism – Laboratory Sciences is assessed through one extended synoptic project assessing applied laboratory skills, data analysis, compliance with regulatory requirements and continuous improvement.

Assessment methods ensure you can demonstrate both theoretical understanding and applied occupational competence.

You must meet the following entry requirements:

Hold five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including Maths and English at Grade 5 or above and Combined Science at Grade 5 or above

Have an excellent attendance record

All applicants are considered through a holistic admissions process to ensure you have a strong likelihood of success on this academically and technically demanding programme.

On successful completion, you may progress on to:

Skilled employment (e.g. laboratory technician, laboratory assistant or quality control technician)

Higher or degree apprenticeships within laboratory science and related sectors

Higher Education, including HNC/HND or degree programmes such as Biomedical Science, Applied Science, or related laboratory‑based disciplines