Science T Level Level 3 Full-time

Course Overview

Science T Level Level 3 Full-time

The Level 3 Science (Laboratory Sciences) T Level is a two year programme designed for those aged 16–19 who wish to progress into skilled employment, apprenticeships, or Higher Education within the science sector. The programme combines rigorous classroom learning with substantial practical activity and a minimum of 315 hours of industry placement. It is aligned to employer defined standards and reflects current and emerging practices within laboratory science contexts.

The programme is designed to develop you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for technical roles within laboratory‑based science industries. The programme combines in‑depth classroom learning with extensive practical laboratory activity, ensuring you gain a strong understanding of biological, chemical and physical principles alongside sector‑specific professional practice.

You will develop competence in core laboratory techniques, scientific investigation, data handling and analysis, and the application of health, safety, and regulatory requirements. Teaching is contextualised through real‑world laboratory scenarios and is supported by an Employer Set Project, enabling you to apply your knowledge and transferable skills such as research, problem solving, teamwork and communication to authentic industry‑focused tasks.

A substantial industry placement of 315 hours, forms an integral part of the programme, allowing you to apply your skills in a professional laboratory environment and develop confidence, employability skills and occupational behaviours expected by employers. On completion, you are well prepared for progression into skilled employment, Higher or Degree apprenticeships, or laboratory‑based Higher Education pathways.

Course content

You will study two mandatory components:

• Core Component

  This component develops the underpinning scientific knowledge, skills and behaviours required across the science sector, including key principles from biology, chemistry, and physics, alongside an understanding of professional practice, ethics, regulation, and quality systems.

  Core transferable skills are developed and assessed through the Employer Set Project (ESP), including project management, research, problem solving, communication, teamwork, and reflective evaluation.

• Occupational Specialism

  You will specialise in Laboratory Sciences, developing applied technical skills, professional behaviours and decision making through authentic laboratory-based activities.