A-Level Environmental Science
AQA 7447 - Qualification DetailsThe Environmental Science A-level looks at a wide range of Earth processes and human interactions with natural systems and is an important step in taking an interest in ecology and environmental studies to higher levels of study. This course looks at many themes that may be familiar to students of geography and environmental management at a much higher academic level with more detailed methods and analysis.
If you have a background in related sciences and want to really understand how the world works, this course is for you!
Course Details
Course Timeline
- First Year: September 2025 - July 2026
- Second Year: September 2026 - May 2027
Assessment
- Two three-hour written examinations
- Fieldwork with accredited provider (non-assessed)
What's Included
Weekly Support
- Weekly live online classes during UK term time
- Homework reviewed in class every week
- Formally assessed homework every two weeks
- All classes recorded for revision
Exam support
- Exam skills and tests throughout the course
- Full mock examinations
- Support with practical skills and fieldwork requirements
Modules of Study
Unit 1: The Living Environment
Understanding the conditions that allow life on Earth. Understanding global cycles and systems. The importance of humans and conservation of biodiversity.
Unit 2: The Physical Environment
Learn about the physical factors that determine Earth systems including water, soil, atmosphere and minerals.
Unit 3: Energy Resources
Energy makes the human world go around! This module looks at methods of energy generation in detail, ways of conserving energy and approaches to future energy challenges.
Unit 4: Pollution
Understanding the ways that chemicals and energy interact to cause environmental change. The properties of pollutants and ways to manage their environmental impact.
Unit 5: Biological Resources
Human management of natural resources. Agriculture, water management and the use of forest resources.
Unit 6: Sustainability
How do you live infinitely on a finite world? Addressing the challenges of the sustainability of biotic and abiotic resources.
Unit 7: Research Methods
How do you research? Laboratory and field skills, sampling techniques and generally making good science!
Entry Requirements
While there are no hard entry requirements, the A-level is a step-up in challenges and assumes some prior knowledge.
Key Skills Required:
- Some mathematical and English skills
- Familiarity working with graphs
- Understanding of experimental data principles
Recommended Prior Study:
- IGCSEs in Environmental Management, Geography, or Marine Science
- Biology or Chemistry qualifications
- While not required, some experience in these areas is expected
Important: This is a challenging A-level course and is only recommended for those with existing qualifications in the sciences or related disciplines. The course is quite tough, so prepare for significant self-study!
Fieldwork Requirements
Although not technically considered Non-Examined Assessment, certified completion of fieldwork is considered mandatory by most exam centres for entrance to the Environmental Science exam.
What's Included:
- In-person fieldtrip arranged with external accredited provider
- Damian will accompany students on the course at no additional cost
- Understanding of practical ecological techniques
- Design and delivery of ecological investigations
Important Notes:
- Fieldwork can be completed by any accredited provider if preferred
- Exact location and dates TBC, depending on provider availability
- Course with external provider comes at additional cost
- Parents can accompany students or students can attend unaccompanied with pastoral responsibility assumed by centre staff
Required Resources
Required Textbook
Environmental Science A level AQA endorsed
Author: Richard Genn
ISBN-10: 1912190079
ISBN-13: 978-1912190072
Additional Study
Self-study and review are ESSENTIAL to passing the course. Students will be expected to:
- Read in preparation for classes
- Complete homework assignments
- Conduct further research independently
Content Warning
We will be looking at the direct impacts of pollution, climate change and habitat loss which contains some mature themes including human mortality, the death of wildlife and the impacts of climate change.
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