Biology and Chemistry / Medical A-Level Pathway

EPQ

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)is a largely self-directed research project into a topic of the student’s choice. You will develop your study skills as you plan, research and develop your idea, creating either a research assignment, a product or an activity (e.g.,an event)as your final piece. The EPQ may also count towards UCAS points.

Core Maths is an exciting course which will help you to use maths in a range of ‘real world’ contexts to prepare for success in your studies, future care and life.

This one-year course will develop your mathematical skills and thinking appropriate for a Level 3 qualification. You will become more confident and competent in using maths and the qualification will be considered for UCAS points if you are planning to study at university in the future.

Work experience examples (skills, sector, employers) For health professions any work experience dealing with people is useful, e.g.,part-time work in customer service, visiting or working with care home residentsorwork withcharitable organisations. Derby University Hospital has a work experience and volunteering scheme that you can apply for. Please be aware that some opportunities in the medical field may be restricted due to your age and numbers are restricted meaning they are sought after (work shadowing is encouraged).Wildlife Trusts can provide field work experience for ecology or environmental science and there is growth in investment from large companies to address sustainability and demonstrate commitment so look out for project work and competitions.

Internal and External opportunities:

Joseph Wright Friends of the Earth Club and the Urban Garden

Joseph Wright Debate Club -good for ethical questions for health professions

Summer Schools,such as the Sutton Trust

NHS Health Careers: https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/

Careers in the Pharmaceutical Industry: https://www.abpi.org.uk/medicine-discovery/academic-collaboration-education-skills/careers-in-the-pharmaceutical-industry/

Into Biology: http://intobiology.org.uk/

A Future in Chemistry: https://edu.rsc.org/future-in-chemistry/career-options

General: https://sciencecouncil.org/careers-from-science/ And https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-categories/science-and-research

These are the careers most associated with the subject expertise, however there are many more roleswhere the study of this subject will be of use.

For those who study sciences there are many opportunities that exist from technician roles at apprenticeship level to roles that require higher level qualifications and focus.For some opportunities there is intense competition. There is some funding available for some health-based careers with University bursaries of up to £8,000 per year available for many health courses.

University

• Medicine
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Pharmacology
• Environmental Science
• Forensic Science

Specialist University Information

www.DiscoverUni.gov.uk

https://coursefindr.co.uk

The Guardian League table

Apprenticeship

• Pharmacy Assistant
• Laboratory Assistant
• Nursing
• Research and Development
• Paramedic

Specialist Apprenticeship Information

https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/