Skills for Work Laboratory Science

This course gives a broad practical introduction to laboratory science. You will explore a variety and range of industries and services, and the career opportunities in science laboratories in a local, national and global setting.

Laboratory technicians work in different sorts of labs. They work with scientists, to carry out experiments and record results. Animal technicians also work in laboratories, caring for animals used in research and, when qualified, helping with experiments.

Laboratory Science offers good opportunities for those who enjoy:

• learning practical and technical skills

• working as part of a team

• paying attention to detail

• being methodical

• observing and recording. 

In this course learners explore a variety of local, national and global industries and services and the career opportunities in science laboratories. Learners develop the basic practical laboratory skills: measuring, weighing and preparing compounds and solutions, and understanding and implementing the health and safety requirements for a safe working environment. They also develop specific practical skills related to microbiology, radioactivity, chemical handling and analysis, and laboratory equipment. Learners produce a plan to carry out a practical investigation to investigate an aim related to a scientific topic. This involves reporting results, conclusions and evaluations of the investigation.

The course emphasises the employability skills and attitudes valued by employers, which help to prepare learners for the workplace. Learners review employability skills and seek feedback from their peers and teaching staff as appropriate. They evaluate their own strengths and weaknesses, personal skills, qualifications and experience against career options.

The course is made up of four compulsory units.

The compulsory units are:

• Careers Using Laboratory Science OR Careers Using Laboratory Science Scotland

• Working in a Laboratory

• Practical Skills

• Practical Investigation

To achieve the course award all four units have to be passed. To achieve unit passes a number of outcomes have to be passed. Assessments are carried out regularly within the classroom setting. There is no final exam.