T-Level Science (Laboratory Sciences) Programme Aim

Before you submit your application

Before submitting your application to Wilberforce Sixth Form College, please make sure you have included the following information:

Personal details – including your home address, personal email address (not a school email), contact number and current school.

Next of Kin details - please add parent/guardian contact details including email address.

Predicted grades – please include a full list of all your predicted grades.

What happens after you apply?

Once you have submitted your application, we will contact you using the personal email address provided.

If you decide you would like to change your course choices, there is no need to submit a new application. You can discuss and change your choices at your interview.

You only need to attend one interview, even if you would like to change your course choices or are interested in studying multiple courses.

If you have any questions or need any help with your application, please contact liaison@wilberforce.ac.uk.

You will study core biology, chemistry and physics alongside how the science sector operates and the principles of good scientific practice. The Laboratory Sciences specialism develops skills in laboratory planning, scientific techniques, health and safety, standard operating procedures, data collection and analysis, quality standards and continuous improvement. The two-year programme includes a minimum 315-hour industry placement with an employer. Assessment includes three core examinations, an Employer Set Project and a substantial Laboratory Sciences occupational specialism project.

OVERVIEW

Equivalent in size to three A Levels, this two-year T Level combines classroom theory, practical laboratory learning and a minimum 315-hour industry placement. Developed with employers, it prepares you for skilled employment, an apprenticeship or higher-level study in the science sector. You will complete the Laboratory Sciences occupational specialism and build the technical competence expected in modern scientific workplaces.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

You will develop a broad understanding of biology, chemistry and physics, including cells and tissues, biological molecules, immunology, chemical reactions, analysis, electricity, waves, gas laws and radiation. In the Laboratory Sciences specialism, you will learn to design scientific tasks, carry out laboratory techniques safely, follow standard operating procedures, apply good laboratory and manufacturing practice, collect reliable data, use statistical and digital tools, interpret results and improve scientific methods.

Five GCSEs at grades 4–9, including English Language and Mathematics. A minimum of a grade 5 in GCSE Single Sciences or a grade 5-5 in GCSE Combined Science. A strong interest in practical science and the ability to work safely, accurately and independently are essential. College entry requirements will be confirmed before enrolment.

EXPERIENCES

You will spend at least 315 hours on an industry placement, gaining authentic experience of a scientific workplace. In college laboratories, you will plan and carry out investigations, prepare solutions, use microscopy and microbiological techniques, separate and analyse substances, calibrate equipment, complete risk assessments, follow COSHH requirements and standard operating procedures, and present experimental data using spreadsheets, graphs, reports and presentations.

PROGRESSION

Successful students can progress to skilled employment, a science-related apprenticeship or higher education. Relevant routes include Laboratory Technician and Laboratory Scientist apprenticeships, a Level 5 Technician Scientist apprenticeship, HNC or HND study, or degrees such as Biomedical Science, Applied Science, Environmental Science, Agricultural Science and other laboratory-based science programmes. University entry requirements vary and should be checked carefully.

OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, you will have developed threshold competence for the Laboratory Sciences specialism, including the ability to plan and perform scientific tasks safely, produce reliable experimental data, analyse and communicate results, and review methods to improve quality. Potential career destinations include laboratory research scientist, biomedical scientist and medical laboratory assistant, with further training or study required for some professional roles.