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 strong focus on the practical element of scientific study and practical demonstrations support your theoretical understanding throughout the course. Over two years, you will complete a range of assessed investigations to develop practical competencies such as developing methodologies, recording data, laboratory safety, and interpretation and presentation of data.

Why Study Biology at Worcester Sixth Form College?

You will be supported by a highly qualified, A Level specialist, team who are available daily to assist your development in this exciting A Level.

Each week you will have a number of lessons ranging from practical investigations to theory based sessions, each with integrated group, pair, or individual activities to consolidate your learning. The syllabus is taught linearly with regular synoptic revision and assessment for learning. We encourage independent learning and have designed homework to support and enrich your learning throughout the programme.

You will have access to a comprehensive virtual learning environment (Microsoft Teams) which is accessible anywhere at any time. This is updated with all learning resources used in lessons along with additional supportive materials and links, such as interesting careers information or revision aids.

Your lessons will be held in modern and well-equipped laboratories specifically designed for teaching A Level Biology with a full-time technician to support practical work. Some lessons may take you outdoors into the surrounding Nunnery Wood where you will practice ecological observations
and data collection.

We have a strong record of positive feedback from students and parents for the dedicated safe learning environment in Biology. We often hold departmental competitions, events, and group activities through which you can demonstrate your developing skills in biology. We also offer a range of enrichment opportunities including Medics Academy, Biology Olympiad, an
academic journal club, dissection club, and a yearly trip

akhila

Akhila Robin

Biology - Nunnery Wood High School
Biology is something that interested me ever since high school, so I was excited to further my knowledge of it as an A-level in Sixth Form. We learn about a vast variety of things in Biology from Cell structure to things like Nucleic Acids, the latter being what I am enjoying the most of my Biology course so far. I found that taking Biology was useful because some aspects of it tied into the subject of Chemistry and Psychology that I take. I think Biology will definitely be useful for me in the future for when I go on to study Nursing.

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.

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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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