A Level Biology

Course content & format

This course grounds students in all the main concepts in biology, covering the whole scale from biological molecules to whole ecosystems.

The course will gradually build on GCSE content regardless of prior exam board, revisiting, reinforcing and expanding on previous knowledge before delving into topics in increasing depth and complexity.

It encompasses both established biological concepts and cutting-edge technology, while also providing some scope to explore the more social, medical and environmental aspects of modern biology.
Course content:

• Biological molecules

• Cells

• Organisms exchange substances with their environment

• Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms

• Energy transfers in and between organisms

• Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments

• Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems

• Control of gene expression

• Practical endorsement

Students complete 12 required practicals to obtain their practical endorsement, needed by many university courses and appreciated by many employers. The course includes many additional practical activities that advance students’ understanding and embed key laboratory skills.

Your learning experience

You will attend 3 lessons each week where you will explore a variety of subjects in a highly challenging but supportive setting. You will have specialist support with your biological studies, as well as peer support during group work sessions. There will be an opportunity for 1:1 support in grade improvement sessions on this course.

What can I do next?

Biology is required or desirable if you are interested in the healthcare professions, such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, physiotherapy, nursing, dental nursing, radiography and dietetics.

Many students go on to study biology, biochemistry, natural sciences, maths, material science, environmental sciences, business studies, economics, accountancy and art. The numerous transferable skills developed during the course make A-level biology an asset sought by both universities and employers.