Triple Science

Exam Board:

AQA

What will I study on the course:

You will study the full content of GCSE Biology, Chemistry, and Physics separately, with greater depth and additional topics compared to Combined Science. This provides the broadest coverage for future science study.

• Biology: Cell biology, organisation (e.g., circulatory/digestive systems), infection/response, bioenergetics (photosynthesis/respiration), homeostasis/response, inheritance/variation/evolution, ecology, plus extended topics like monoclonal antibodies, plant diseases, and more detailed genetics.
• Chemistry: Atomic structure/periodic table, bonding/structure/properties, quantitative chemistry, chemical changes, energy changes, rates of reaction, organic chemistry, chemical analysis, atmosphere, using resources, plus extra depth in topics like electrolysis, polymers, nanoparticles, and analytical techniques.
• Physics: Energy, electricity, particle model, atomic structure, forces, waves, magnetism/electromagnetism, space physics, plus advanced areas like forces and motion (including Newton’s laws in greater detail), electromagnetic induction, and particle physics. The course includes required practicals (10 per science, 30 total) for hands-on skills, data analysis, and applying science to real-world contexts like medicine, engineering, environment, and technology. Foundation (grades 1-5) or Higher (grades 4-9) tiers apply per subject, with Higher offering more complex content.

How is the course assessed:

100% exam-based (linear, all exams at the end of the course): Six separate papers (two per science), each 1 hour 45 minutes, 100 marks, 50% of that GCSE:

• Biology: Paper 1 and Paper 2
• Chemistry: Paper 1 and Paper 2
• Physics: Paper 1 and Paper 2 Papers feature multiple-choice, structured, short-answer, closed/open-response, and calculation questions. Required practicals are assessed via exam questions (no separate endorsement). Calculators allowed; equations sheets provided (including key formulae). Students can take different tiers per subject if needed, but usually the same.

Post-16 courses:

A Level Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Further Sciences; Level 3 BTEC in Applied Science, Engineering, or Health Sciences; T Levels in Science/Lab Technician or Healthcare Science. Excellent preparation for university degrees in medicine, engineering, biochemistry, physics, or related STEM fields. A strong grade (6+ or 7+ in each) is often required for A Level Sciences.

Careers:

Medicine/doctor, dentist, pharmacist, veterinary surgeon, biomedical scientist, research scientist, engineer (chemical/mechanical/aerospace), environmental scientist, forensic scientist, teaching, data analysis, biotechnology, or advanced roles in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, energy, and technology. Triple Science is highly regarded for STEM careers, where in-depth knowledge is essential.

Specific advantages:

Triple Science offers deeper understanding and more content than Combined Science, ideal for students passionate about science or aiming for science A Levels/university. It includes extra topics for stronger foundations, more required practicals for lab experience, and flexibility in tiers. At Discovery Academy, it builds on the Combined pathway with engaging lessons, revision support (e.g., Kay Science resources), and prepares you for challenging post-16 options in a supportive environment.

How useful it is in the real world: