Biology
Biology is a highly respected qualification, that shows universities and employers that you have strong academic abilities. It is a significant step up from GCSE and if you enjoy learning about animals, plants and humans, our environment and conservation this could be the course for you.
Course Overview
This is a two-year programme of study. There will also be mock examinations in Year 12.
During the course, students will study a range of topics from Cell Biology, Genetics to Energy Transfer. Students will also develop their practical skills and competency by completing a number of required practical’s.
Where could this course take me?
Successful completion of the course can lead to employment, college or university. Whatever your grade or aim, at the end of the course you will have gained a great deal of knowledge and developed a number of transferable skills. Previous students have gone into a wide range of courses including Biology, Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Midwifery, Physiotherapy, Sports Science, Biomedical science, Psychology, Veterinary Science and non-Science courses.
Entrance Requirements
To study Biology at A Level, students on either the Combined Science or Separate Science GCSE programmes will be considered, but only if they sit the Higher Tier exams.
If students study Combined Science, they must achieve a 6-6 Grade or above, including a Grade 6 in B1 and B2.
If students study Separate Sciences, they must achieve a Grade 6 or above in GCSE Biology.
Students must also obtain a Grade 5 or above in GCSE Higher Mathematics.
For students from other schools, equivalent Science GCSE courses will be considered.
As with all A Level subjects, students must be prepared to carry out a considerable amount of private study and attend support sessions when appropriate.
Awarding Body
AQA
Assessment
Paper 1 – Written Exam: 2 hours (35%)
Paper 2 – Written Exam: 2 hours (35%)
Paper 3 – Written Exam: 2 hours (30%)