Biology is the study of life in all its complexity, from the molecules inside cells to entire ecosystems and the future of our planet.
Whether you are fascinated by medicine, genetics, conservation, neuroscience or biotechnology, Biology will challenge you to think critically, investigate scientifically and understand some of the most important issues facing society today.
'The essence of being human is that we solve problems. And when we’re faced with enormous problems like disease and climate change, we need to solve them by collaboration.'
Jennifer Doudna CRISPR’s Next Advance Is Bigger Than You Think, TED, April 2023
​Are you interested in...
How DNA controls the characteristics of every living organism?
Discovering how the human body maintains health and fights disease?
The causes of genetic variation, evolution and biodiversity?
Investigating how ecosystems function and how humans interact with their environment?
Cutting-edge developments in gene technology, personalised medicine and stem cell research?
Carrying out practical investigations using professional laboratory techniques?
Biological Molecules and Cells
Explore the structure of proteins, DNA, enzymes and cells, and discover how life functions at a molecular level.
Exchange and Transport Systems
Investigate how humans, animals and plants exchange substances with their environment and maintain life.
Genetics, Variation and Evolution
Study inheritance, biodiversity, natural selection and the evidence for evolution that unites all life on Earth.
Energy Transfers
Examine photosynthesis, respiration and the flow of energy through ecosystems.
Responses and Homeostasis
Understand how organisms respond to stimuli and maintain stable internal conditions through nervous and hormonal control.
Gene Expression and Modern Biology
Investigate cancer, stem cells, genetic engineering, genome projects and modern medical technologies.
Practical Biology
Complete twelve required practical investigations, developing advanced laboratory, fieldwork and data-analysis skills.
ASSESSMENT
Three examinations at the end of Year 13:
Paper 1: Biological molecules, cells, exchange and genetics (35%)
Paper 2: Energy transfers, responses, evolution and gene expression (35%)
Paper 3: Synoptic paper including practical skills, data analysis and an essay (30%).Students also complete the A-level Practical Endorsement.
SUBJECT EXPERTS​
Dr Millard, Subject Lead
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Mr Ward is an expert in the care and breeding of aquatic plant, shrimp and fish species. He has a degree in Zoology and experience of supporting students with further Biological studies.
Ms McTaggart is a specialist teacher of Biology graduating from Her PGCE from the University of Cambridge. She has a BSc Biomedical Science from the University of York, and has experience of supporting inclusive teaching strategies and supporting students as they apply to University.
Dr Marshall-Gowers is an expert in Psychology, and Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences. Her research has explored the areas of 'Directed Forgetting and Emotion Regulation', and has been both an Associate Lecturer at The Open University and a Subject Leader at Anglia Ruskin University College teaching across the Biology and Psychology programmes.
Mrs Fraser is passionate specialist Biology teacher committed to helping every student achieve excellence. Following her degree in Biomedical Science, and a career in haematology and pathology she has developed expert teaching and personalised support for students preparing them for success in A-level examinations, university applications and careers in the biological and medical sciences.
Fieldwork and enrichment opportunities
A-level Biology students will have the opportunity to undertake fieldwork in the beautiful Flatford Mill or Millport area.
Participation in Biology Olympiad and STEM competitions.
Guest lectures from healthcare, environmental and scientific professionals.
University outreach events, medical and bioscience enrichment activities. Opportunities to support applications for Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and Russell Group universities.
BIOLOGY CAN LEAD TO A CAREER IN:
medicine
dentistry
veterinary science
biomedical science
genetics and biotechnology
pharmacology
environmental science and conservation
physiotherapy and healthcare professions
scientific research