Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Medical Science (Extended Certificate)
at Rainham School For Girls, Gillingham · school or sixth form
What the college says
This is an exciting new course from Edexcel that aims to enable students to study the principles and applications of medical science. Knowing how the human body works, in good and poor health, is key to learning how you can make a difference to others in the field of medical sciences. Students will study how the human body functions at a cellular and tissue level and 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. You will also gain some insight into the factors that affect health and how an understanding of such factors may help to make a positive impact upon our lives. Students will have hands-on experience inoculating, culturing and investigating bacteria alongside considering the current issues faced with bacterial resistance. Students will explore a number of key areas in the field of medical science, with a focus on health issues faced by the human population today to explore their impact on the world we live in. You will also gain an understanding of diagnostic techniques, before focusing on health issues themselves alongside associated initiatives including, cancer and various aspects of immune dysfunction, to the increasingly important world of genetics.
What you need to get on
Standard sixth form entry requirements: 5 GCSEs graded at 4 or above (counting 2 BTECs maximum) which must include a grade 4 in English or Maths. This course builds on the knowledge and understanding of GCSE science. It is expected that students will also have achieved the following: Grade 5-5 in GCSE Combined or Grade 5 in at least 2 Science GCSEs, 1 of which must be Biology (for those taking triple science) Grade 5 in English
How you are assessed
One subject in depth, assessed largely through coursework and projects.
What this level means
The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.
Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?
Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.
Where it runs
Rainham School for Girls
DERWENT WAY, GILLINGHAM, ME8 0BX
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 1 September 2026 · GILLINGHAM
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