Studying A-Level Geology will give you a deeper understanding of the planet we live on and the processes that have shaped it over billions of years.
You will investigate earthquakes, volcanoes, fossils, climate change, geological hazards and natural resources, whilst developing valuable scientific, analytical and problem-solving skills. Geology combines aspects of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Geography, making it a highly respected and engaging science.
Through practical investigations, fieldwork and laboratory work, you will learn to interpret evidence, analyse data and apply your knowledge to real-world challenges facing society today.
'The present is the key to the past.'
James Hutton
​Are you interested in...
Volcanoes, earthquakes and plate tectonics?
Fossils, dinosaurs and the history of life on Earth?
Climate change and past environmental change?
Rocks, minerals and how landscapes form?
Natural resources, energy and sustainability?
Fieldwork, practical investigations and scientific problem-solving?
Core Geological Concepts
Minerals, rocks and the rock cycle.
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Earth structure, plate tectonics and geological processes.
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Fossils, geological time and the evolution of life.
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Geological structures and deformation.
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Natural resources and Earth materials.
Applied Geology Themes
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Geohazards including earthquakes, volcanoes and landslides.
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Geological map interpretation and cross-sections.
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Quaternary geology and past climate change.
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Geological evolution of Britain.
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Geology of the lithosphere and large-scale Earth processes.
Practical Skills
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Laboratory investigations and rock identification.
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Data analysis and interpretation.
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Geological field techniques and observations.
ASSESSMENT
Three written examinations at the end of Year 13:
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Component 1: Geological Principles (33.3%)
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Component 2: Geological Investigations and Problem Solving (33.3%)
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Component 3: Geological Applications (33.3%)
Practical skills are assessed throughout the course through a Practical Endorsement and fieldwork programme.
SUBJECT EXPERTS​
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Mr Ockwell-Smith, Subject Lead
Mr Ockwell-Smith is passionate about bringing geology to life.
Holding a First Class Honours degree in Geology and extensive geological fieldwork experience, he combines expert subject knowledge with an infectious enthusiasm for the natural world.
He is committed to inspiring students through engaging lessons, practical investigations and fieldwork opportunities, helping them develop a deep understanding of Earth's processes while fostering curiosity, confidence and a love of geology.
Fieldwork
Students complete a minimum of four days of geological fieldwork across the two-year course.
Opportunities may include investigations of local rock formations, geological mapping, fossil identification and coastal or upland field studies.
Additional enrichment opportunities may include university lectures, museum visits.
GEOLOGY CAN LEAD TO A CAREER IN:
geology and earth sciences
engineering geology
mining and resource exploration
environmental consultancy
hydrogeology and water management
hazard management and risk assessment
teaching, research and academia