Biology

Biology has become one of the most exciting and rapidly developing subjects in recent years. Thus, it plays a valuable part in the general education of any student. The new AS/A2 specifications place emphasis on these new developments as well as developing further the understanding of many core biological topics.

The AS level includes the following topics:

Cell structure and function
Biological molecules
Human health and disease
Transport systems in animals and plants
Biodiversity and evolution

Practical skill development is an essential element of the AS and A2 courses. It develops the students’ analytical capabilities and ability to work under pressure. Skills are assessed internally using specific set experiments.

The A2 level includes the following topics:

Cellular control and variation
Gene technology
Ecosystems and sustainability
Behaviour

All A2 units are synoptic.

The course is suitable for enthusiastic and hard-working students from a background of either Biology GCSE or a Double Award Science GCSE. Due to the large syllabus, students must be well organised and prepared to put aside time for independent study. Student suitability will be judged on an individual basis.

The course also involves a Marine Biology field trip to Dale Fort on the Pembrokeshire coast. This is considered an essential part of our studies as well as often being quoted as the highlight of the whole A-level. Some pupils may also go on our trip to Belize to study rainforest ecology and conservation. This is run jointly with the Geography department.

The course is excellent preparation not only for degree courses in Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science, but also for the Biological Sciences, Microbiology, Agriculture, Marine and Freshwater Ecology and many others.

Exam board: OCR

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Subjects on offer

A Level Subjects:
Art & Design
Biology
Business Studies
Chemistry
Classical Subjects
Economics
English Literature
French
Geography
German
History
Mathematics/Further Maths
Music
Music Technology
Philosophy & Ethics
Physics
Politics
Product Design
Spanish
Sport Studies
Theatre Studies

AS Level Subjects:
Electronics
ICT
Italian (GCSE/AS)