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A Level in Environmental Science

Level 1 Diploma

Course Location

College

Trafford College

Location

Altrincham Campus

Further Details

Age

College 16-18

Department

A Levels

Course Start Date

Tuesday 1st September 2026

Course Duration

Full-time, 2 Years

Course Time

Course Fee

£ 1080.00
You may be eligible for support with your tuition fees - please visit the college website - funding and finance page for further information

Course Code

AFQ-AL3L-1124

Course Overview

A Level Environmental Science is a contemporary, interdisciplinary science qualification that explores the interactions between the environment and human society. It draws on biology, chemistry, physics, geography and maths to investigate real-world environmental systems, processes and sustainability challenges. Students will develop scientific understanding, research skills and the ability to evaluate evidence to propose sustainable solutions to environmental problems.

Course Requirements

5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above including Mathematics and English Language.

ADDITIONAL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
GCSE Science at grade 55 (Separate or double science)

What you will Learn

You will study a wide range of environmental topics, including:

– The living environment and ecosystems
– The physical environment and Earth systems
– Energy resources and their sustainable use
– Pollution types, impacts and mitigation strategies
– Biological resources such as agriculture, forestry and aquaculture
– Sustainability, circular economy and resource management
– Scientific research methods and field investigation techniques

You will develop skills in scientific investigation, data analysis, problem-solving, critical evaluation and environmental decision-making.

Assessment

A Level is linear, with all assessments taken at the end of the course.

Paper 1: The physical environment, energy resources, pollution and research methods – 3-hour written exam, 120 marks, 50% of qualification.

Paper 2: The living environment, biological resources, sustainability and research methods – 3-hour written exam, 120 marks, 50% of qualification.

Question styles include multiple choice, short answer and extended written response.
Practical skills and fieldwork are embedded in the course and assessed indirectly through written papers

Progression

This qualification prepares students for further study in environmental science, ecology, conservation, geography, biology, environmental management, sustainability, resource policy and related disciplines at university. It also supports entry to apprenticeships or vocational training in environmental and ecological sectors

Career Options

A Level Environmental Science equips students with analytical, research and problem-solving skills valuable in careers such as:

– Environmental consultancy and management
– Conservation and ecology
– Renewable energy and sustainability planning
– Environmental policy and regulation
– Water and waste management
– Urban planning and climate mitigation

Employers value the ability to interpret data, evaluate evidence and propose sustainable solutions.

Mandatory Units

The course covers seven main areas of study:

1. The living environment
2. The physical environment
3. Energy resources
4. Pollution
5. Biological resources
6. Sustainability
7. Research methods and fieldwork skills

These topics are studied holistically, with opportunities for independent thinking, research and application of scientific skills throughout.

Contact Details

For further information please contact T: 0161 886 7070 or E: info@trafford.ac.uk

Extra Costs Involved

Exam Validation Body

Hours Per Week

How Long To Complete

Programme Structure

Contact Details

Disclaimer

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.
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