GCSE Combined Science for Adults

Course Code: Q271198

Key Information

  • Course type

    GCSEs & Functional Skills

  • Campus:

    Highbury Campus

  • Start Date:

    15 Sept 2025

  • Duration:

    1 year

  • Attendance:

    Part-time

  • Fees:

    £360.00 or Free

Science is the systematic study of the physical and natural world through observation and experimentation.

This GCSE (grades 9–1, where 9 is the highest grade) in Combined Science consists of 3 externally examined subject areas. The qualification is divided into the following components (students must complete all six assessments, 2 exams per subject area):

Biology: Cell biology, Organisation, Infection and response, Bioenergetics, Homeostasis and response, Inheritance, variation and evolution, Ecology

Chemistry: Atomic structure and the periodic table, Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter, Quantitative chemistry, Chemical changes, Energy changes, The rate and extent of chemical change, Organic chemistry, Chemical analysis, Chemistry of the atmosphere, Using resources

Physics: Energy, Electricity, Particle model of matter, Atomic structure, Forces, Waves, Magnetism and electromagnetism

The aims and objectives of the qualification are to enable students to:

  • Develop the ability to think scientifically.
  • Develop experimental skills and strategies.
  • Apply the cycle of collecting, presenting and analysing data.
  • Understand and apply scientific vocabulary, quantities, units, symbols and nomenclature.

You will need to hold a minimum of Level 1 qualifications in English and maths (GCSE, Functional Skills or equivalent) or to successfully complete English comprehension and maths reasoning tests at Level 1.

All students are expected to attend all of their timetabled sessions on time, unless prior agreement has been made and agreed with their Tutor. For qualification classes the expectation is a minimum of 85% attendance. If a student arrives more than ten minutes late for class they may be asked to leave. If a student is absent for three consecutive weeks without notice they will automatically be withdrawn from the course.

Full attendance is required at classes, homework is set, there is a minimum expectation that learners will match classroom hours with independent study hours.
Your progress will be assessed throughout the course using a variety of methods within the classroom (required practical activity, group discussion, group work, lab work, etc.). At the end of the course (normally May/June), you will complete a series of final written examinations, 2 in each subject area (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) which are externally marked/graded by the awarding body (AQA). Results are released in August.

School Leavers under the age of 19 do not have to pay fees on any full time courses, though may have to pay for their second year if turning 19 during their studies. If you’re aged 19 or over you might qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan. It’s easy to apply for and you won’t have to pay anything back until you’re earning over £25,000. If you are studying a part-time course and you receive one of the following benefits, or you depend financially on someone who does, you may be entitled to have your tuition fees waived: Job Seekers Allowance, Income Support. You will, however, have to pay any awarding body/assessment fees (unless you are on a first full level 2 course). * If you are in receipt of Working Tax Credit or receive other allowances, you may be eligible to claim concessionary rates. If you are entitled to a fee concession you will be asked to provide proof of your entitlement. It is essential that you inform us if your entitlement changes at any time during your course.

Those wanting to progress into further/higher education for studies and/or a career in science, chemistry, medicine, pharmacology, forensic science, teaching etc

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