BIOLOGY
Biology has never been more relevant. From advances in medicine and genetics to tackling climate change, conserving biodiversity and developing new technologies, biological sciences play a vital role in shaping our world. Studying A Level Biology will help you develop a deeper understanding of the living world while equipping you with the analytical, practical and problem-solving skills valued by universities and employers alike.
At KGV, you will study the current AQA A Level Biology specification through a wide range of engaging and challenging topics.
You will begin by exploring the fundamental principles of biology, including cell structure, biological molecules, DNA, enzymes, membranes and transport. As the course progresses, you will build on these foundations to investigate exchange and transport systems, genetics, evolution, biodiversity, ecology, energy transfer, homoeostasis, the nervous and endocrine systems, immunity and the control of gene expression.
Throughout the course, you will develop your scientific thinking, practical, mathematical and communication skills through a range of laboratory investigations and data analysis activities. Alongside your A Level qualification, you will complete the practical activities required for the AQA Practical Endorsement, demonstrating competence in a wide range of essential laboratory techniques. These experiences provide excellent preparation for degree-level study and careers in areas such as medicine, veterinary science, biomedical science, environmental science, research, biotechnology, healthcare and many other biology-related professions.
More about the course
What will I study
A Level Biology is a dynamic and exciting subject that provides insight into many aspects of our modern world. Your course is divided into 6 modules spread over the two years:
1 – Development of Practical Skills in Biology
2 – Foundations in Biology
3 – Exchange and Transport
4 – Biodiversity, Evolution and Disease
5 – Communication, Homeostasis and Energy
6 – Genetics, Evolution and Ecosystems
Modules 2,3 and 4 are covered in your first year and Modules 5 and 6 are delivered in second year. The practical skills in Module 1 are taught throughout the two years. Course assessment is based solely on three exam papers that you will sit at the end of the two years.
Why choose Biology at KGV
We pride ourselves on our relationships with our students; as class sizes are relatively small, staff effectively engage with all learners and meet individual needs while providing an excellent learning environment. New equipment and modern, spacious labs ensure that all students can safely receive the opportunity to develop practical skills and to apply these to the theoretical aspects of the course.
We are a friendly, approachable team and we are keen to share our experience of Biology with our students! You will be taught be subject specialists with extensive experience in the delivery of A level Biology, and who are experts in working with students of your age group.
Biology is an essential subject to take if you are thinking of pursuing studies in healthcare, medicine, veterinary science, conservation and ecology, or sports and physiology. A level Biology is highly regarded by universities and employers because of the wide variety of skills and knowledge that students obtain.
KGV Biology students have gone on to study Medicine, Physiotherapy, Diagnostic Radiography, Marine Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Ecology & Conservation while others have used their success in Biology to aid their university entry to Law, History or Psychology. KGV Biologists have progressed onto courses at prestigious universities including Oxford, St Andrew’s, Leeds, Nottingham and Liverpool.
Entry Requirements
Standard
5 GCSEs at grades 9 - 5 and or including, English Language at grade 4 or above.
Course specific
You will need a grade 5 or above in Maths, plus a grade 6 in Biology or a 66 in Combined Science.
Preparing for this course
Download the course specification here . If you notice any topics on the specification that you haven't covered at GCSE or you were less confident about, you should go over them in preparation by using this link. Go through the notes sheets (on left of web page) and then practice past GCSE papers (on right of webpage) for OCR.