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Environmental Science

About the course:

Environmental Science is about understanding the complex interactions between humans and the environment. It combines elements of biology, chemistry, physics, and geography to explore how ecosystems function and how human activities impact our planet. This fascinating subject allows you to investigate real-world environmental challenges and develop solutions for a sustainable future. A-level Environmental Science is a dynamic course where you'll learn through a combination of practical fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and theoretical study. You'll develop critical thinking skills, learn to analyse scientific data, and understand how to evaluate environmental issues from multiple perspectives. This subject complements many other A-levels, particularly Biology, Chemistry, Geography, and Economics, as it provides a broader context for many of the concepts covered in these subjects. You will use various scientific equipment and techniques, from water testing kits to geographical information systems (GIS). You'll also develop your research and analytical skills, learning to interpret scientific literature and data to draw evidence-based conclusions about environmental issues.


How will it be assessed:

Paper 1 - What’s assessed: The living environment Biological resources Sustainability Research methods Students will be expected to draw on knowledge and understanding of the entire course of study to show a deeper understanding of the interconnections between topics.

Written exam: 3 hours 120 marks 50% of A-level A combination of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions.

Paper 2 What’s assessed:

The physical environment Energy resources Pollution Research Methods Students will be expected to draw on knowledge and understanding of the entire course of study to show a deeper understanding of the interconnections between topics.

Written exam: 3 hours 120 marks 50% of A-level A combination of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions.


What is expected of you:

  • Dedication to both theoretical learning and practical work
  • Willingness to participate in fieldwork and outdoor activities
  • Good time management
  • Active participation in class discussions and group work
  • Keeping up-to-date with current environmental issues and scientific developments

What it prepares you for:

  • Environmental Consultant
  • Conservation Officer
  • Sustainability Manager
  • Environmental Engineer
  • Marine Biologist
  • Climate Change Analyst
  • Environmental Education Officer
  • Renewable Energy Developer
  • Environmental Policy Advisor

Waste Management Officer Degrees in:

  • Environmental Science
  • Ecology
  • Conservation Biology
  • Sustainable Development
  • Environmental Management
  • Geography
  • Earth Science

Entry requirements:

There are no specific requirements to access the course. However, learners are most likely to succeed if they have:

  • 5 GCSEs at grades 5 or above and/or
  • BTEC qualification(s) at Level 2
  • Achievement in English and Mathematics at GCSE.

For more information:

If you are an internal applicant, please talk to your Geography teacher about the possibility of studying Environmental Science in the Sixth Form. Alternatively, you may choose to talk to the subject leader Miss K Jones.
If you are an external applicant and would like more details about this course please email sixthform@mosslands.wirral.sch.uk