Biology: A-level
Qualification: A-level
Exam Board: AQA
Entry Requirements: Grade 6 or above in GCSE Maths, Grade 5 or above in GCSE English and Grade 6 or above in GCSE Biology or Grade 6-6 or above in GCSE Combined Science.
Watch our video about Biology A-level
Hands-on lessons taught by subject specialists
Biology A-level will give you the skills to make connections and associations with all living things around you. Biology literally means the study of life and if that's not important, what is? Being such a broad topic, you're bound to find a specific area of interest, plus it opens the door to a fantastic range of interesting careers.
We have excellent practical resources and technical support, allowing teachers to incorporate practical work into lessons whenever possible, over and above the ‘required practicals’ of the curriculum.
With extremely strong results over the past decade, our Biology Department brings a passion and commitment that provokes very positive feedback from students. Our teaching staff are specialists in biology, aiming to inspire all students to enjoy their subject and achieve their best, regardless of ability. High quality marking, feedback, exam preparation and planning next steps all support students’ progress.
The course
The 2-year course covers many aspects of human, animal, plant and cellular biology, including physiology, biochemistry, ecology and genetics.
- Biological molecules
- Cells
- Organisms exchange substances with their environment
- Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
- Energy transfers in and between organisms
- Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments
- Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
- The control of gene expression
There are also 12 required practicals which are assessed in the exams and allow students to pass the practical endorsement aspect of the course as well as the A-level.
Equipment required
Students will need a scientific calculator, an A4 lever arch file, dividers, lined paper, and a clear mm ruler.
Beyond the classroom
Past activities have included:
- Intermediate Biology and Biology Olympiad competition
- Science Week–wide range of speakers, competitions and events
- Medical Society (MEDSOC) club
- STEM Challenge events
- ‘Student of the half term’–rewards system to recognise and celebrate achievements and progress of all students
- High quality textbooks available to students to help with independent work
- One day of field work.
Examinations and Assessment
Paper 1 (topics 1-4) 2 hours 35%, Paper 2 (topics 5-8) 2 hours 35%, Paper 3 (all topics with synoptic essay) 2 hours 30%
Practical Endorsement (pass or fail)
Progression
Our students progress onto a very broad range of science-related courses at universities across the country. Students apply for university courses leading to careers in medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, natural sciences, psychology, nursing, midwifery, biomedical science, physiotherapy and research. Some will also go onto non-science related courses and careers, such as law, where their achievements in science have served to develop skills such as problem-solving and critical thinking.
