Biology
A Level Biology is designed to engage and inspire by showing how understanding contemporary issues requires a grasp of fundamental biological concepts. Studying Biology teaches the skills of asking questions, making observations, evaluating evidence, and solving problems. The course builds on the concepts and skills developed in GCSE Science. Biologists learn how living things work, interact with one another, and evolve. Biology is presented as an exciting, relevant, and challenging subject. The combination of academic rigour and practical focus ensures that the course is both stimulating and exciting.
Course content
This two-year course embeds 12 required practicals into the teaching. Year 12 covers biological molecules; cells; how organisms exchange substances with their environment; and genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms. Year 13 covers energy transfers in and between organisms; how organisms respond to internal and external change; genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems; and the control of gene expression.
Entry requirements and skills
A GCSE Grade 8 or above is required in Biology due to the rigours of the course. Separate (rather than combined) GCSE Biology is highly recommended as a precursor. In exceptional cases, applicants with a Grade 7 may be considered, on the understanding that the course can be challenging. At least 10% of the marks require mathematical skills at least at higher tier GCSE level.
Assessment
All content is examined at the end of the two-year course. Paper 1 covers Year 12 content (2 hours, 35%). Paper 2 covers Year 13 content (2 hours, 35%). Paper 3 covers content from both years (2 hours, 30%). Practical skills are assessed through 12 required practicals, internally assessed and externally moderated, and reported as a separate practical endorsement that does not contribute to the A Level grade.
Enrichment
The department organises educational experiences, trips, fieldwork and clinics each year to contextualise students' learning.
Future pathways
Biology provides access to a wide range of careers and degree courses, including Biology, Zoology, Botany, Biochemistry, Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Psychology, Pharmacy, Environmental Science, Microbiology and Biotechnology.
A Level Biology FAQs
What exam board is A Level Biology?
The course follows the AQA Biology specification (7402).
What are the entry requirements for A Level Biology?
A GCSE Grade 8 or above in Biology is required due to the demands of the course. Separate (rather than combined) GCSE Biology is highly recommended as preparation. In exceptional cases, applicants with a Grade 7 may be considered. At least 10% of the marks involve mathematical skills at higher tier GCSE level.
What topics are covered in A Level Biology?
Year 12 covers biological molecules, cells, how organisms exchange substances with their environment, and genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms. Year 13 covers energy transfers in and between organisms, how organisms respond to internal and external change, genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems, and the control of gene expression.
How is A Level Biology assessed?
All content is examined at the end of the two-year course across three written papers. Paper 1 covers Year 12 content (2 hours, 35%), Paper 2 covers Year 13 content (2 hours, 35%), and Paper 3 covers content from both years (2 hours, 30%).
Is there a practical assessment in A Level Biology?
Yes. Students complete 12 required practicals during the course to demonstrate competency. Practical skills are internally assessed and externally moderated, and reported as a separate practical endorsement alongside the A Level grade. The endorsement does not contribute to the grade itself.
What careers and degrees can A Level Biology lead to?
Biology supports a wide range of pathways, including degrees in Biology, Zoology, Botany, Biochemistry, Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Psychology, Pharmacy, Environmental Science, Microbiology and Biotechnology.