A-Level Biology
A-Level Biology
Course Level – 3
Course Type – A-Level
Specific Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at grade 5 including English, Maths with GCSE Double Science (6-6) or Triple Science (6-6-5) with Biology being grade 6.
Duration – 2 Years
Student Age – 16-18
About The Course
Biology is the scientific study of living things, at all levels of organisation. A-level biology students will explore how cells, organs, organisms and ecosystems interact with their environment and each other.
The course develops an understanding of where and how life is evolving, how evolution links life processes and ecology, and the impact that humans have on all forms of life.
Students gain skills in practical scientific techniques, applied mathematics, analysis and evaluation of experimental methods.
How Is The Course Taught?
The specification is divided into topics, each covering different key concepts of biology. A flexible approach is taken to teaching, utilising a variety of techniques and approaches, to accommodate the different needs of learners.
Lessons take place in our well-equipped biology teaching laboratories, along with field visits to enhance the learning of ecology.
The course is taught by our highly qualified teachers of biology who bring a wealth of experience teaching across the curriculum and professional expertise in plant genetics, animal biology, ecosystems and biodiversity, research and publication.
How will I be Assessed?
You will be assessed throughout the year through a series of formative assessment methods, including mock exams and end of year progression assessments, to check you are keeping pace and understand the content taught.
At the end of two years, you will sit 3 externally set examinations: Paper 1 Biological Processes (37% weighting); Paper 2 Biological Diversity (37% weighting); Paper 3 Unified Biology (26% weighting).
To achieve the endorsement, you must successfully complete all PAGs, which are practical experiments with differing skill sets. This demonstrates to universities that you are competent in the laboratory.
What does it lead to?
On completion of this course, you are likely to move onto university to study a science-based degree. An A-level in Biology is required for occupations such as a Dentist, Pathologist and Surgeon. Salaries in this field range between £43,000 to £80,000.
This course can also lead you to a range of higher-level apprenticeships in the animal care, beauty, healthcare and laboratory industry sectors.
