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Biology A-level

Biology is the scientific exploration of the vast and diverse world of living organisms.

This exploration has expanded enormously over the past four decades, revealing a wealth of knowledge about ourselves and the millions of other organisms with whom we share the planet. Today, biological research spans an almost infinite spectrum, from molecules to landscapes.


Why Biology?

The study of Biology has an immediate relevance to our daily lives. It is important for everyone to develop a sense of how we fit into the complex ecology of our planet without wreaking horrendous destruction. Some of our greatest engineering feats of the future are likely to involve bio-engineering projects, particularly concerning the disposal of municipal and industrial waste, and the development of renewable resources.

A-level Biology can lead to a university education in medicine, veterinary science, dentistry, physiotherapy, pharmacology, environmental science, forensic science, microbiology, genetics and a range of other science courses.


Any special requirements?

If students have taken Separate Sciences at GCSE, they must have achieved grade 6 or above in Biology plus one other from Chemistry or Physics. If students have taken Combined Science at GCSE, it is desirable that students have achieved grade 7 or above.

As the maths content of the new A-level course is quite substantial, students should also have at least a grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics.


What will I study?

Year One:

  • Development of practical skills in Biology
  • Foundations in Biology
  • Exchange and transport
  • Biodiversity, evolution and disease.

Year Two:

  • Development of practical skills in Biology
  • Communication, homeostasis and energy
  • Genetics, evolution and ecosystems.


How will I be assessed?

At the end of the second year, the assessment will take the form of three written papers. These will assess content from both years of the course and will allow students to gain an A-level in Biology.

Practical skills will be developed throughout the course and will be assessed throughout the written examinations and also through the Practical Endorsement. The Practical Endorsement is a non-exam assessment, which is reported separately to the overall grade for the subject.

Students will complete regular end of topic tests in class to assess understanding through the course.



Purpose and Provision

Download a copy of the Science Departments Purpose and Provision document here.

Curriculum Map

Download a copy of the Science Departments Curriculum Map document here.


Welcome to Biology videos