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Geology

at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School Penrith, Penrith · school or sixth form

Level 3A levelsGCE A level2 yearsFull time

What the college says

Geology involves the scientific study of the earth. We examine in detail the materials that occur at the surface, the minerals and the various types of rocks and deposits. We look at how these materials are produced, changed and recycled, and how the processes involved change the landscape. There are in-depth studies of “big” topics - earthquakes, mountain-building, volcanic activity, ocean and continent formation - and we learn how these are related to huge changes in the earth’s interior. Emphasis is placed on applied geology. All nations depend upon a supply of essential resources: energy resources like coal, oil and gas; metals such as iron, copper, lead and zinc; construction materials such as limestone, sand and gravel, clay and roadstones; and an adequate supply of fresh water. Geologists are involved in finding and developing these vital materials. A consequence of human consumption of raw material is inevitably waste disposal - again needing geological expertise. Fieldwork is an essential part of the course and in the summer/autumn terms, four days of local field trips (Lake District, Eden Valley and Pennines) are arranged. In addition, there are afternoon excursions, which can be used to complete coursework requirements, and occasional visits to local extractive industries such as the mine at British Gypsum.

What you need to get on

Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics or Grade 6 in GCSE Science

How you are assessed

Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.

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

  • Queen Elizabeth Grammar School Penrith

    Ullswater Road, Penrith, CA11 7EG

    DaytimeClassroom based
    Check the journey

Start dates

  • 1 September 2026 · Penrith

Who else teaches this exact qualification

Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.

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