The course follows a context-led approach so that all the Biology studied is within particular contexts that run through each topic. For example, the course begins with the context of heart disease and this is used as a framework for teaching heart structure and function, blood clotting and basic biochemistry. This gives students a greater appreciation of how Biology affects the real world, whilst still providing thorough and rigorous training. An A level Biologist will have an informed opinion of biological/health issues in the news and be able to make informed judgements as to the quality of the science behind the headlines. Our students have a sound background in mathematics and science, including statistical analysis of data, and can think critically about data, analysing and interpreting complex data sets.
In general, we request a minimum of 3 Grade 6s and 2 Grade 5s. It doesn’t matter whether you have studied Biology or Double Award Science at the IGCSE level, but you need to have a grade 7 (or 77) to cope with the demands of the A-level course. It is essential to have at least a 6 grade (ideally higher) in IGCSE Mathematics.
Three two-hour exam papers. One paper is fully synoptic, testing all topics studied (including a pre-release article). All papers include 10% mathematics marks and test understanding of practical work. Assessment by teachers of students’ practical skills is ongoing as part of the Practical Endorsement at A level. This is separate to the A level grade and will be reported as a ‘Pass’ on A level certificates.
About Education Provider
| Region | Yorkshire and the Humber |
| Local Authority | North Yorkshire |
| Ofsted Rating | Good |
| Gender Type | Co-Educational |
| ISI Report | View Report |
| Boarding Fee | £46,740 |
| Sixth Form Fee | £32,520 |
| Address | Ampleforth, York, YO62 4ER |
The course follows a context-led approach so that all the Biology studied is within particular contexts that run through each topic. For example, the course begins with the context of heart disease and this is used as a framework for teaching heart structure and function, blood clotting and basic biochemistry. This gives students a greater appreciation of how Biology affects the real world, whilst still providing thorough and rigorous training. An A level Biologist will have an informed opinion of biological/health issues in the news and be able to make informed judgements as to the quality of the science behind the headlines. Our students have a sound background in mathematics and science, including statistical analysis of data, and can think critically about data, analysing and interpreting complex data sets.
In general, we request a minimum of 3 Grade 6s and 2 Grade 5s. It doesn’t matter whether you have studied Biology or Double Award Science at the IGCSE level, but you need to have a grade 7 (or 77) to cope with the demands of the A-level course. It is essential to have at least a 6 grade (ideally higher) in IGCSE Mathematics.
Three two-hour exam papers. One paper is fully synoptic, testing all topics studied (including a pre-release article). All papers include 10% mathematics marks and test understanding of practical work. Assessment by teachers of students’ practical skills is ongoing as part of the Practical Endorsement at A level. This is separate to the A level grade and will be reported as a ‘Pass’ on A level certificates.