AQA science qualifications enable students to engage, explore, enjoy and succeed in science. By putting students at the heart of everything we do, our aim in science is to deliver a curriculum that builds confidence, knowledge and understanding at every key stage.
Students follow a science curriculum aligned with the National Curriculum. At Key Stage 3, this progression builds naturally on their Key Stage 2 knowledge and prepares them for the content and expectations of Key Stage 4. A key element of the Key Stage 3 programme is the development of practical skills, with teachers modelling techniques that help students strengthen their scientific enquiry and their ability to work scientifically.
At Key Stage 4, students explore a broad range of new scientific topics and skills while following the AQA Combined Science (Trilogy) course at either foundation or higher tier. Each topic builds on the knowledge and understanding developed at Key Stage 3, with additional links that support further study or training for post-16.
Like all the science qualifications taught at the RESPECT Collaboration of Schools, we use straightforward language in our lessons to allow students to focus and achieve not only at KS3 but also at KS4, giving each student the required support needed to achieve the GCSE results they deserve.
Entry Level Certificate and the GCSE Science Combined Trilogy are nationally recognised qualifications which give students the opportunity to achieve a certificated award, providing them with the opportunity to go on to courses at further education, apprenticeships or employment.
Qualifications/Outcomes
AQA GCSE Science Combined Trilogy
AQA Entry Level Certificate
Post 16 destinations/careers:
If you have enjoyed studying GCSE science, there are various ways you can continue your studies at post-16. There are college-based and work-based qualifications available, so it’s important to think about what would best suit you and your post-16 plans.
Your choice might depend on how you prefer to learn and your future plans.
At Key Stage 4, you’ve explored a broad range of scientific topics and skills through the AQA Combined Science (Trilogy) course. Each topic has built on your Key Stage 3 knowledge, with links that support further study or training for post-16.
You could choose A-levels in Biology, Chemistry or Physics if you’re aiming for university degrees in science, medicine or engineering. T-levels offer a two-year technical qualification with practical skills and an industry placement, ideal if you want to move into skilled scientific employment.
From 2027, V-levels will replace current vocational qualifications and can be combined with A-levels.
If you need more time to prepare for level 3 study, level 2 pathways are available, including an occupational pathway for those moving straight into work or apprenticeships, and a further study pathway for those continuing to A-levels, T-levels or V-levels.
Apprenticeships allow you to earn while you learn, combining work with study in areas such as laboratory science, healthcare science, engineering and environmental science.
All these pathways give you nationally recognised qualifications that open doors to further education, apprenticeships or employment, helping you achieve your career goals.
Useful resources and links:
Key Stage 3 covers the first three years of secondary school education in England. BBC Bitesize offers short films, quizzes and practice activities that deliver key science topics, helping students build on their Key Stage 2 knowledge and prepare for Key Stage 4.
BBC Bitesize GCSE Science Combined Trilogy
GCSE is the qualification taken by 15 and 16-year-olds to mark their graduation from Key Stage 4. BBC Bitesize provides comprehensive revision materials, practice questions and video content to support students studying the AQA Combined Science (Trilogy) course at either foundation or higher tier.
YouTube GCSE Free Science Lesson
Free video tutorials covering the full GCSE science curriculum, offering clear explanations of complex topics and exam technique guidance to help students achieve their target grades.
