Environmental Science
“Plans to protect air and water, wilderness and wildlife are in fact plans to protect man.” – Stewart Udall
As we launched the subject in 2022, we haven’t had the opportunity to produce a department video, however please watch the link above to get an idea of the type of issues you will learn about on the course.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Grade 6 in any GCSE Science
Subject Leader: Mr L Blake
Examination Board: AQA
A-Level Syllabus Code: 7447
Examinations: 100%
What is A-Level Environmental Science?
Environmental science is a holistic subject with many interconnected systems and processes which aims to enhance your understanding of the environment. You will learn that a change to one process can affect many other processes over different spatial and temporal scales.
In the subject you will develop a consideration of environmental issues and the conclusions reached should be based on reliable evidence-based information and quantitative data. Students will develop an understanding of how human society relies upon natural systems for resources and life support systems.
An understanding of these systems should be used to propose changes in society that would produce sustainable lifestyles.
What makes a good Environmental Scientist?
A good environmental scientist needs to have a passion for the environment and the ability to analyse data and evaluate case studies. Students who enjoy a multi-disciplinary approach to learning and have a keen interest in the sustainability of our planet will find this new specification engaging and thought provoking. A background in geography and biology will be helpful but not essential. Students studying this subject should be interested in reading the news on a daily basis to be able to relate to global environmental and sustainability issues.
This is a great accompaniment to A-levels in geography, biology, physics and maths and develops key skills including communication, teamwork and critical thinking.
What can I expect to learn in Environmental Science?
The A-Level will be examined through 2 examinable components
Paper 1 (50%) – The Physical Environment
- The physical environment with an emphasis on how anthropogenic activities are interconnected with physical processes
- Energy resources
- Pollution
- Research methods
Paper 2 (50%) – The Living Environment
- The living environment with an emphasis on the interaction of living organisms and their abiotic environments
Biological resources - Sustainability
- Research methods
Where could Environmental Science take me?
A qualification in environmental science is a great foundation to whole host of different pursuits. With a growing consciousness around the world regarding the impact that we have on our environment, we are seeing more and more people looking to make a difference in the world and pursue a career in environment sector.
An A-level in Environment Science will be a huge help to university courses in geography, sustainability, biological sciences, ecological sciences, marine biology and many other scientific fields.
There are many careers that environmental science can lead to. They include:
- Environmental Scientist
- Environmental Consultant
- Water quality scientist
- Environmental engineer
- Recycling officer
- Environmental education officer
- Marine biologist
- Nature conservation officer
- Sustainability consultant
Ultimately a degree or A-level in Environmental Science can lead to many career options and provides a range of transferable skills – so really it is up to you which area of work you choose to go into afterwards.
