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

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
University of Reading

From country lanes to the rainforest: Writing for the Earth

Arts & Humanities

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

Key Stage 3
English Literature
University of Reading

Designing drugs to fight fatty liver

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Dannielle Kydd-Sinclair, a researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 3
Biology
University of Reading

How do Snowflakes Impact the Planet

STEM

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

Key Stage 3
Maths
Science
Geography
University of Reading

Exploring Soils: A Living Treasure

STEM

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Nerea Ferrando Jorge, a PhD researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 3
Biology
Geography
University of Reading

The Making of British Policy

Arts & Humanities

This RBC tutorial pack was created by Mason Grant Considine, a PhD researcher at the University of Reading.

Key Stage 3
History
Politics
University of Reading

Water sustainability & greywater reuse in agriculture

Arts & Humanities

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

Key Stage 5
Geography
Biology
University of Reading

Educating modern Britain? Equality and schooling 1970-1990

Arts & Humanities

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

Key Stage 4
History
University of Reading

British colonial policy in Tanzania

Arts & Humanities

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

Key Stage 5
History
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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.

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

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