Level 3
Environmental Science, A Level
Level 3
Environmental Science, A Level
Explore the planet we live on and the issues affecting it, from climate change to biodiversity. You’ll develop scientific understanding, analytical skills, and practical experience to tackle real-world environmental challenges. This A Level is ideal for students interested in ecology, sustainability, and the science behind environmental change.
Course Overview
At Loxton Campus, Environmental Science A Level combines biology, chemistry, and geography to give you a well-rounded understanding of environmental systems. You’ll investigate ecosystems, human impact on the environment, and global sustainability issues, applying theory through practical experiments, fieldwork, and research projects.
Our state-of-the-art labs and access to environmental field equipment support hands-on learning, while experienced tutors provide guidance and encouragement to develop critical thinking and scientific literacy.
In the first year of your course, you'll have the opportunity to follow a pathway that aligns with your career aspirations. Options including environmental and social enterprise will provide you with additional skills and experiences to enhance your career prospects.
You'll be taught by experienced teachers who are passionate about their subjects and our dedicated Tutor Learning Mentors are focused on helping you develop effective study skills and prepare for exams.
By joining the Career Excellence Hub, you’ll gain additional opportunities including guest lectures, industry visits, and career-focused workshops.
What will I study?
Key modules include:
- Ecosystems and energy flow
- Biodiversity and conservation
- Climate change and global warming
- Human impact on the environment
- Pollution: air, water, and soil
- Sustainability and renewable resources
- Environmental monitoring and sampling techniques
- Environmental legislation and policy Skills development:
- Designing and conducting practical investigations
- Data collection, analysis, and interpretation
- Critical evaluation of environmental research
- Communication of scientific findings through reports and presentations
Exciting Opportunities
Throughout your course, you will benefit from:
- Field trips to local and national environmental sites, such as nature reserves or water treatment facilities
- Guest lectures from environmental scientists and industry professionals
- Opportunities to participate in environmental projects and research initiatives
- Appropriate outdoor clothing is recommended for fieldwork.
Where will I study?
Our purpose-built Sixth Form at Loxton Campus is designed to simulate a university environment, featuring state-of-the-art specialist facilities, high-quality learning resources, and collaborative spaces that support focused and independent study.
How do AS and A Levels work?
You will normally study three or four A Levels over two years. In Year 1, you will work towards an AS qualification, which is completed at the end of the first year and provides a strong foundation before progressing to full A Level study in Year 2.
This structure offers flexibility – you may choose to study four subjects in Year 1 and take three into Year 2. AS Levels also carry UCAS points. You can find more details in our dedicated AS Level FAQs on the College website.
How will I be assessed?
- Examinations at the end of Year 2 covering all theory and applied topics
- Practical investigations and fieldwork-based assignments
Entry Requirements
- Five GCSEs at grades 9–4, including Science and maths at grade 5 or above
- Strong written and analytical skills, with an interest in the natural world
What can I do after this course?
Environmental Science A Level provides a pathway to higher education and careers in science, conservation, and sustainability.
Career opportunities:
- Environmental Consultant or Officer
- Conservation Scientist or Ecologist
- Wildlife Manager or Marine Scientist
- Renewable Energy Specialist or Sustainability Advisor
- Laboratory Technician in environmental analysis
Higher education degrees in:
- Environmental Science or Ecology
- Geography or Environmental Management
- Marine Biology or Conservation Biology
- Environmental Policy or Sustainability
You could also progress to degrees at University Centre Weston, such as:
- Environmental Science BSc (Hons)
- Wildlife and Conservation Management
What do I do now?
Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page. From here you’ll be taken through to our application portal.
What to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next open event
Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.
