Biology (A-Level)

Outline

The course explores life at every level, from the molecules and cells that make up living organisms to populations, ecosystems and modern genetic technologies.

Biological Molecules

Explore the molecules that make life possible.

Cells

Investigate cell structure and function.

Organisms and their Environment

Explore gas exchange, digestion and mass transport within living organisms.

Variation and Classification

Study protein synthesis, evolution and biodiversity.

Energy Transfer

Explore the processes of photosynthesis and respiration and their importance to living organisms.

Responding to Change

Investigate the nervous system, homeostasis and muscle contraction.

Genetics, Evolution and Ecosystems

Explore inheritance, populations and natural selection.

Control of Gene Expression

Discover how gene expression is regulated and how modern genetic technologies can be used within medicine, research and biotechnology.

Enrichment opportunities

Your learning can extend beyond the classroom through a range of science and STEM enrichment opportunities.

These include:

• Biology Olympiad
• STEM Sustainability Club
• Further science enrichment activities

These opportunities give you the chance to challenge yourself, explore biology in greater depth and apply your scientific interests beyond the classroom.

Progression

A-Level Biology can support progression into a wide range of careers and further study within healthcare, science, research and the environment.

Healthcare

The course can support progression towards areas including:

• Medicine
• Veterinary Science
• Biomedical Research

Science and Research

You could progress towards careers and further study in areas including:

• Laboratory Science
• Biotechnology
• Environmental Science
• Scientific Research

Environment and Sustainability

Biology can also lead towards opportunities focused on using science to understand, protect and manage the natural world.

Assessment

The course is assessed through three written examinations and a practical endorsement.

Examinations

You will complete three written examinations at the end of the two-year course.

These examinations will assess your biological knowledge and understanding alongside your ability to analyse data, solve problems, think critically and apply scientific concepts.

Practical Endorsement

You will also complete a practical endorsement designed to assess the development of your practical scientific skills throughout the course.

This combination allows you to demonstrate both your theoretical understanding of biology and your ability to develop and apply practical scientific skills.

Entry Requirements

Students will need a minimum of five grade 5’s or above, including English Language. In addition, students must have a grade 6 in GCSE (or equivalent) Mathematics and a grade 6 in GCSE Biology. For those who have studied Combined Science, a grade of 6-6 is required.Students wishing to study this subject must also have a G-Score of 6. Ideally, this subject should be taken alongside other subjects that fortify the skill set, such as Chemistry, Mathematics, or Geography. * One Vocational Qualification in a related subject area will be considered in place of a GCSE.

* Fees

Don’t let the cost of studying put you off – most of our students study for FREE, and those who don’t qualify for funding are very often eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.

Eligibility depends on both the course you have chosen to study and your individual circumstances.

Apply

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