NEW STUDENTS COURSE START WORK HERE

CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR ENTRY SEPT 2026

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Science GCSE

Whether you are looking to strengthen your scientific foundations or aim to progress to Advanced Level 3 study, our Science department provides the right  pathway for you.

Most students joining us will have previously studied GCSE Combined Science (Double Award) or Separate Sciences. Our courses are designed to bridge the gap from your previous studies. 

We offer two routes depending on your academic goals and interests:

GCSE Combined Science (Double Award)

  • Best for: Students aiming for Level 3 Science courses (A Levels or BTECs).
  • Focus: This route is specifically designed for those intending to sit the Higher Level papers. It provides a comprehensive and rigorous background across Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

GCSE Biology (Single Award)

  • Best for: Students with a general interest in the living world or those needing a science qualification to complement other subjects, such as Physical Education or Sport.
  • Focus: This course generally prepares students for the Foundation Level paper, focusing on the core principles of biological systems.

Course Essentials

Courses Available

GCSE Biology (Single Award)
GCSE Combined Science (Double Award)

Entry Requirements

PLUS

2 x Grade 3 in GCSE Science and Grade 3 in GCSE Maths.

Enquiries To

Jackie Frood: jf@varndean.ac.uk

What are the Standard Entry Requirements?

CourseGeneral GCSE Grade minimum entry requirements
IB Diploma or 4 A levelsA mixture of at least 7 GCSEs at Grades 9 – 6 including English, Maths and Science.
3 A LevelsA mixture of at least 6 GCSEs at Grades 9 – 4 including English.
A mixed programme at Level 3, to include at least one vocational courseA mixture of at least 5 GCSEs at Grades 9 – 4 including English.
Foundation Level (Level 2)At least 4 GCSEs at Grade 3, including English. At least one GCSE should be at Grade 4 or above.
Any student who has not achieved a grade 4 or C in GCSE English and/or Maths must include further study of these subjects in their programme.