Why Study Biology?

Biology is a wide-ranging subject, covering many aspects of life processes from the micro to the global. Biology A Level reflects this with a diverse range of topics, including: Biological compounds; Cell structure, Organisation and Division; Cell membranes and Transport; Biological reactions are regulated by Enzymes; Nucleic acids and their functions; Adaptions for gas exchange, transport and nutrition; Homeostasis and the Kidney; The Nervous System; Photosynthesis; Respiration; Microbiology; Ecology; Human and Plant reproduction; Genetics and inheritance; Genetic technologies.

There is a focus on the practical elements of scientific study where, over the two years of your study, you will complete around a range of practical investigations to develop practical competencies.

Why Study Biology at Worcester Sixth Form College?

  • All members of the Biology department are highly qualified A Level specialists, and are available via e-mail, between lessons and in workshops to offer all the support you may need. All textbooks and lesson resources are provided, and there is also a detailed online virtual learning environment (Teams) which is accessible anywhere. This is updated with all the resources we use in lessons, along with additional resources and useful links to online material that is relevant to the course.
  • We have modern well-equipped laboratories, designed for teaching A Level Biology, with a full-time technician to support practical work, along with easy access to Nunnery Wood and the surrounding area which provides a useful resource for ecological and statistical studies.
  • We use a diverse range of teaching styles, incorporating practical work, group work, individual research and peer learning.
  • Feedback from lessons is overwhelmingly positive from students who enjoy the lessons and the friendly yet purposeful atmosphere.
  • There are opportunities to complete your research project through the Medic’s Academy and Biology Olympiad, which can be extended into an EPQ and can provide you with practical support.
  • We have links with local universities.
Biology Sami Riaz

Sami Riaz

Biology - King's Worcester
Studying at King’s, Worcester allowed me to master the basics of Biology, however I wanted to further my education at Worcester Sixth Form College due to the fantastic reputation of teaching and its upgraded facilities. Studying Chemistry and Core Maths has enabled me to refine my analytical thinking in many of the Biological practical endorsements in the lab. What fascinates me the most is how Biology applies to current everyday life with the topics of immunology and disease, heavily linking to the Covid-19 pandemic. I have chosen to study Chemistry with an offer at King’s College London as I am curious to find out more about the design and synthesis of pharmaceutical drugs as I have been inspired by the discovery of many COVID-19 vaccines and effective therapeutics against this disease.

Progression Opportunities

Biology is vital to many careers such as medicine, dentistry and other healthcare professions along with veterinary science, but it also opens up great opportunities due to its versatile, investigative and analytical skills, which are valued in many non-scientific industry and business sectors.

Popular courses that past students have gone on to study at university include: Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Marine Biology, Biochemistry, Medicine, Physiotherapy, Nursing, Midwifery, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Natural Sciences, Environmental Health, Environmental Science, Forensic Sciences. Other students chose closely related degree courses such as Sports Science, Psychology, Chemistry and Dietetics and Nutrition.

Course Specifics / Entry Requirements

Qualification Name Maths GCSE Req. English GCSE Req. Other Req. Desirable Qualifications Skills & Attributes Required for Success Guidance on Costs or Commitments
Biology55Grade 6,6 or above in Combined Science or grade 6 or above in GCSE Biology and another science.Biology students not studying A Level Mathematics will be expected to attend Core Maths. Average GCSE score of 5.5Willingness to participate in practical work.Optional cost of equipment including lab coats £10.

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