Biology

Course summary

Biology is an exciting and popular subject in the Sixth Form, covering a wide range of topics and skills. A-level study will help nurture a passion for biology, lay the foundations for further study and careers in biological sciences and medicine. The A-level course continues to develop analytical and practical skills within a scientific framework leading on from GCSE. There are three written examinations for A-level. 15% of the total A-level marks will be for practical knowledge and understanding and this will be based on 12 core practical tasks which will be assessed in the written papers. 10% of biology exams will assess mathematical skills at higher tier GCSE level. There is a fieldwork component to units in both Year 12 and Year 13. Pupils will study a variety of ecological sites including woodland, rocky shore and sand dunes. The fieldwork will cover both theoretical and practical components of the courses. Biology is a very popular A-level course and combines well with chemistry, geography, psychology, PE, physics and mathematics. Studying biology can prepare students for a wide range of biologically-oriented degrees and careers from anatomy to zoology, via newer degrees such as biomedical science or molecular biology. The skills learnt in analysis, reasoning and precise communication will benefit the student in any discipline and is particularly valuable for any prospective medicine or veterinary medicine applicant. Extension opportunities are offered through a popular dissection club and cooperation with Medisim, a local trauma surgeon working on cost-effective models for training medics.