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Two female science students are looking at an experiment. One student holds a thermometer in a cylinder. They both have their hair tied back and are wearing protective eyewear.

FACULTY OF Science

At Truro and Penwith College, our high-specification laboratories and extensive equipment will allow you to explore and experiment across a wide range of Science courses, from forensic science and environmental studies to biology and physics. 

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Partnered with Prestigious Science Institutions

The College is a STEM Learning Platinum Science Mark holder, a member of the Royal Society Associate Schools and Colleges Scheme, is a lead school for the Institute of Physics and hosts the South West’s Educational Coordinator for the Royal Society of Chemistry. These prestigious institutional links will enhance your learning experience on your course.  

In addition to A Levels and Extended Diploma options, the College also offers a range of specialist academies as part of the College’s enrichment programme. There are several pathways available to our Science students across the College’s academy provision, including Medics’, Allied Health, STEM Research, Biology, Chemistry and Physics. 

DISCOVERY

Studying Science courses with us has never been so exciting. You’ll be invited to guest lectures from organisations such as the Institute of Physics, and there is the opportunity for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. Science is a subject for the inquisitive mind. Through research and experimentation, you’ll identify and understand the scientific principles and laws that make life possible. Whether specialising in medical science or combining biology, chemistry and physics A Levels, your curiosity will be encouraged and your methodology perfected. 

SKILLS AND PROSPECTS

With a scientific background, you’ll have a large selection of employment and Higher Education opportunities to choose from. Many of the skills learned through scientific study, such as organisation, observation and research, translate well into a variety of other academic and professional subjects, broadening your horizons. 

A photo of Ned Crowley, Head of Faculty for Science. He is wearing a lab coat, a shirt and tie and glasses.
We are a truly exceptional Science department of dedicated experts who take pride in enabling learners to excel.
Ned Crowley
Head of Faculty
Three science students are working with pen and paper. One student has a calculator in her hand.

The No. 1 provider of STEM delivery & support in Cornwall

Over half of all Cornwall’s Level 3 Science students study at the College and we continue to be the highest and most significant contributor to STEM delivery and support in the county. With many staff qualified to PhD level, Truro and Penwith College is a STEM Learning Platinum Science Mark holder.

The College sees high levels of progression to STEM related courses and competitive universities.

compete

You will have the opportunity to engage with a range of extra-curricular challenges and competitions, including the Royal Society of Chemistry Schools Analyst Competition and Biology and Physics Olympiads.

work

Students benefit from abundant links with Higher Education progression and employability with support to secure work experience placements in hospitals, GP surgeries, veterinary practices and scientific laboratories.

travel

Field trip destinations include the Jurassic Coast, an exchange trip to Germany and a two-week conservation project with Operation Wallacea in Mexico.

Expert

With many staff qualified to PhD level, Truro and Penwith College is a STEM Learning Platinum Science Mark holder.

Truro College Geology Students Exhibit Groundbreaking Hydrogen Research at the Royal Society in London

Students from Truro and Penwith College travelled to London to present their research at the prestigious Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition. Their project, titled “Is There Naturally Occurring Hydrogen Gas in Cornwall?”, was developed through the Royal Society’s Partnership Grants Scheme over the past year.

The Summer Science Exhibition is the UK’s premier public science event, hosted by the Royal Society—the country’s national academy of science. Truro College students shared their work alongside 13 outstanding research groups and more than 300 scientists from across the UK, presenting their findings to some of the world’s most eminent researchers, Fellows, and visitors.

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A group shot of students stood in front of banners. They are all wearing visitor lanyards.
A man in a yellow waterproof coat with a lifejacket sits in front of large yellow machinery at sea. You can see the word 'Orbital, Marine Power' on his coat and on the machinery.

Penwith College was very different to school. You are more responsible for your own learning outside of your class schedule, which is like university. Make the most of opportunities to meet and talk to people about the career path they took. Most of the time they won’t have had it figured out by the time they were 16!

Ben
A Level Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics

Frequently Asked Questions

To apply for a Science course at Truro and Penwith College, visit the course page on our official college website and complete your application online.

Yes, Enrichment opportunities include our nationally leading Medics’ Academy – for future doctors, vets and dentists – and the Accelerate Programme, which promotes development and excellence. You can find out more about our Enrichment offer at truro-penwith.ac.uk/enrichment. There are also many opportunities for students to challenge themselves and compete in their chosen field. Past successes include the South West RSC Schools Analyst Competition where the College were Regional Winners in 2020 and 2019 and National Champions 2018.