Steps Into Science: NQ (Level 5)
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Course overview
Take your first step into the world of science and discover where your curiosity can take you.
This friendly, one-year, NQ Steps Into Science (Level 4), course introduces you to the main branches of science - Biology, Chemistry, and Physics - alongside essential skills in Mathematics and Communication. It’s perfect if you’re new to science or want to build confidence before moving on to higher levels of study.
You’ll complete National 4-level units and take part in practical experiments that bring science to life. Supportive lecturers will help you develop your skills, explore different fields, and identify the areas of science that inspire you most.
The course is designed as the starting point in Kelvin’s Science pathway, leading directly to NQ Steps into Science (Level 5) once completed successfully.
This course is ideal for:
- Learners with little or no formal science qualifications who want to start building knowledge and skills.
- Adults or school-leavers interested in exploring different science subjects before choosing a specialism.
- Anyone who enjoys hands-on learning, teamwork, and practical investigation.
- Learners who want a clear route towards further study, employment, or future university entry.
What you will learn
You’ll complete a variety of engaging topics designed to develop practical and theoretical understanding:
- Biology – cells, body systems, and living processes.
- Chemistry – materials, reactions, and everyday applications.
- Physics – energy, motion, and how science explains the world around us.
- Mathematics – numeracy and problem-solving for scientific contexts.
- Computing – using technology and data in experiments.
- Communication & Study Skills – developing academic writing, reporting, and presentation skills.
- Investigation Skills – planning and carrying out experiments safely and effectively.
You’ll receive regular feedback, encouragement, and tailored support throughout the course.
Entry requirements
✅ There are no formal qualifications required for entry.
✅ You should have a genuine interest in science and enthusiasm for learning – please show this in your personal statement.
✅ All applications are reviewed individually, and places are offered based on personal statements and engagement.
Personal Statement Guidance
Your personal statement should:
- Explain why you want to study science and what interests you most.
- Include any school, work, or life experience that shows curiosity or ability in scientific or practical tasks.
- Highlight your skills - motivation, teamwork, communication, or problem-solving - with examples.
Applications with detailed, thoughtful statements are more likely to be selected.
Additional Information
When you start the course, your academic skills will be reviewed to ensure you’re on the right pathway. If extra support is needed, staff may guide you to an alternative route to help you succeed.
ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language
- you need to have SQA ESOL National 5 (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)
- If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment here at the College.
Career Opportunities
While this course is an entry point to further study, it also introduces you to career areas such as:
🧪 Laboratory Assistant or Technician (Trainee)
🏥 Healthcare Support or Clinical Assistant Roles
🌿 Environmental or Conservation Work
⚙️ Engineering or Manufacturing Support
💡 STEM Apprenticeships and Technical Pathways
You’ll develop transferable skills valued by employers across science, healthcare, and industry — teamwork, observation, problem-solving, and digital literacy.
Future prospects
On successful completion, you can progress to:
- NQ Steps into Science (Level 5)
- Other introductory NQ programmes in Health.
This course is the first building block on a clear progression route through Kelvin’s science pathways - from Level 4 to Level 5, onwards to HNC/HND Science, and eventually to university study or employment in a wide range of scientific fields.
