Access the RBC coursebook library

Research-Based Curricula coursebooks

Research-Based Curricula coursebooks or 'RBCs' are digital subject resources for Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 students, each written by a PhD researcher and expert in that topic.

Practice university-style study whilst learning new and fascinating things about a subject of your choice! Completing an RBC can be mentioned in UCAS applications and shows interest in your subject.

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Using the library

Use the 'SEARCH' bar to filter by subject, Key Stage, or title. Remember to 'RESET' your search each time!

Make Happen

Crystal Structure Determination of Drugs

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Margarita Mersiyanova, a researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 5
Chemistry
Biology
Physiological Society

Staying in the Loop: Cell Communication

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Edmond Mouofo, a researcher at the University of Edinburgh.

Key Stage 5
Biology
Physiological Society

Roll Camera Action: Synapses Take on Communication

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Akanksha Jain, a researcher at the University of Edinburgh.

Key Stage 5
Biology
Physiological Society

Developmental Neuroscience

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Nawon Kim, a researcher at the University of Edinburgh.

Key Stage 5
Biology
Physiological Society

Alzheimer’s Disease and Arteries: When it Goes Wrong

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Katy Walsh, a researcher at the University of Manchester.

Key Stage 5
Biology
Psychology
University of Reading

The Science of Strawberries

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Sophie Read, a researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 4
Biology
Geography
University of Reading

Mitochondrial dysfunction and disease

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Charlie Collingham, a researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 4
Biology
Medicine
HeppSY+

Memory: How does it work and why does it let us down?

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Dr Hannah Witherstone, a senior lecturer in Child Psychology.

Key Stage 3
Biology
Psychology
University of Reading

Reading into Writing: Beckett's Romantic Legacy

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Emma Keanie, a PhD researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 3
English Literature
University of Cambridge

Football in the UK: an introduction to heritage studies

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Josh Bland, a researcher at the University of Cambridge.

Key Stage 5
Geography
History
Heritage Studies
University of Reading

The 365-day British strawberry

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Sophie Read, a researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 3
Biology
Chemistry
Geography
University of Reading

Hormones made me do it!

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Janine Dovey, a researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 3
Biology
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About RBC coursebooks

What are RBC coursebooks?

Subject tutorial packs (PDF) - students complete either with teacher guidance or on their own  
Six 1-hour modules and a final reflection activity in each
Supports attainment and subject understanding
Develops critical thinking, problem-solving, data analysis and writing skills, and more!

Why is it great for students to complete an RBC coursebook?

Demonstrate your subject interest and dedication for university applications
Talk about completing a unique RBC coursebook in your UCAS applications
Similar to the work required for a university course or module - practice uni-style learning
Gain 'stretch' experience and build independent research and learning skills
Find out which subjects you do and don't like at a university level!

Who are they for?

Key Stage 3, 4 or 5 students depending on the pack
Teachers can take lesson and activity ideas from these, or use as extracurricular assignments
Years 10 & 11 in gaining stretch and prepare for A-level style learning
Years 12 & 13 to build expertise and unique subject experience universities will be looking for
Inspiration or precursor for any students completing an EPQ (extended-project qualification)

Please note that many of the tutorial packs cover more than one school subject, for example, geography and statistics together. This is called interdisciplinary study and it is very common at university. Being able to demonstrate that you have engaged with 'interdisciplinary' study is likely to strengthen your UCAS application.

Support for Teachers

Your school is eligible for free access to the RBC coursebooks as part of partnerships with UK universities and local National Collaborative Outreach Programmes (NCOPs). Please click on the following links to see the tutorial packs:

Click here for an overview of RBCsUniversity Of ReadingCumbria (HelloFutures)- Uni ConnectEast Midlands  (Dancop)- Uni ConnectSouth Yorkshire (HeppSY+)- Uni ConnectEssex and East of England (Make Happen)- Uni Connect

Need help or want to explore how your university can be apart of the Research-Based Curricula programme? 

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