What is STEM?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths – four subjects that teach the key skills we can’t live without.
It’s not all science labs, building bridges and coding though ‒ STEM skills can be used in all job roles and help you stand out to employers. We call this set of skills the STEM7.
The 7 STEM skills are
- Creative thinking
- Problem solving
- Communication
- Working with others
- Learning new things
- Flexibility
- Using data to make decisions
As you can see, these seven skills transcend the four subjects associated with STEM.
A levels
We offer a range of subjects that fall under the STEM umbrella – you can find more information about each of these on the course pages.
- Biology
A level Biology is designed to develop an understanding of various key biological systems. These systems include the components of cells, the molecules which make up living organisms and the reactions between them. It also compares the systems found in plants and animals which are necessary for life.
- Chemistry
The study of chemistry is driven by the desire to explain the behaviour of the materials around us. You will study in our specialist laboratories, developing a greater understanding of the general principles of chemistry and of a discipline that remains at the forefront of scientific development.
- Core Maths
Core Maths is a one year course that allows you to retain, expand and develop your knowledge and skills from GCSE, as well as giving you the opportunity to study and apply new Level 3 material.
- Further Mathematics
A level Further Mathematics introduces you to new topics such as matrices and complex numbers that are vital in many STEM degrees. Further Mathematics is a challenging and rewarding subject, which deepens your knowledge and understanding beyond the standard Mathematics A level.
- Maths
A level Maths provides you with a thorough grounding in the mathematical tools and techniques that are applicable to multiple maths-focused roles in the workplace. The modern world needs employers with an advanced level of mathematics skills, and maths is essential to the continued development of our increasingly technological lives.
- Physics
Physics is an exciting subject which aims to explain how things work, from the smallest of particles to the vastness of galaxies and the universe. With this A level you will develop skills in physics, maths, technical writing, observation, measuring instruments, research and independent work.
19+ Courses
For those learners aged 19+, STEM subjects are covered through the following:
- Access Foundation GCSE Programme
If you plan on pursuing a new career but don’t have the qualifications to do so, this programme will provide you with the essential qualifications needed for progression.
- GCSE: Combined Science Synergy
This course is a double GCSE award combining biology, chemistry, and physics.