Environmental Science A Level

Please note that applications to the sixth form close on Wednesday 14th January 2026. If you wish to make an application after this date please contact the sixth form office at office@derehamsixthform.norfolk.sch.uk or call 01362 696884.

For more information about a place at Dereham Sixth Form College for September 2026, please visit the website - www.dsfc.org.uk

Course Instructions

Most students will choose the equivalent of 3 A Levels but in some circumstances a maximum of 4. These are subjects that will continue for the full two years. Select only one subject from each option block (choosing more than 1 course from the same block will delay your application as courses from each block are timetabled at the same time). All courses are equivalent to 1 A Level except where specified differently below.

Dereham Education & Soccer Academy Including BTEC Diploma in Sport (equivalent to three A Level subjects, no other subject choices required).

If your choice of subjects are not available due to limitations of the blocks, please email us with the details: office@derehamsixthform.norfolk.sch.uk

Environmental Science has many interconnected systems and processes. A change to one process can affect many other processes over different spatial and temporal scales. You will develop an understanding of how human society relies upon natural systems for resources and life support systems. You will also be expected to investigate evidence through a range of analytical tools and then be able to put forward a considered opinion. The course will develop your skills in communication, teamwork and critical thinking.

We will follow the AQA specification. The content of the course is as follows:

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Year 1

The living environment

The physical environment

Energy resources

Research methods

Year 2

Pollution

Biological resources

Sustainability

Research methods

You will sit two exams at the end of the course. Each paper will be 3 hours long and will consist of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions. Paper 1 assesses your units on The physical environment, Energy resources, Pollution and Research methods and is worth 50% of the A Level. Paper 2 assesses your units on The living environment, Biological resources, Sustainability and Research methods and is worth 50% of the A Level.

At least one grade 6 in a science subject or geography.