Overview

Studying biology allows you to explore why siblings resemble each other, how medicines work, the role of DNA, the reality of cloning, and the contributions of Darwin.

The course aims to spark curiosity, deepen understanding of complex biological concepts, and inspire the next generation of biologists.

Entry requirements

Grade 6 or above in GCSE biology, 7-7 in combined science or an equivalent of grade 6-6 in the biology components of combined science and grade 5 in GCSE mathematics.

Course content

In Year 12, students study Modules 1–4: development of practical skills, foundations in biology, exchange and transport, and biodiversity, evolution and disease.

Year 13 covers Modules 5–6: communication, homeostasis and energy, and genetics, evolution and ecosystems. All modules are revisited for the linear exams.

Trips, visits and extra-curricular

  • Scarborough field trip – Our annual, highly successful Ecology field course provides students with valuable life experience and the practical skills required for their practical endorsement qualification. The cost is approximately £150 in the autumn term of Year 13, with support available in cases of genuine financial hardship.
  • We run the Biology Olympiad (and Intermediate Biology Olympiad) every year for students who wish to enter and compete nationally. This is excellent for UCAS applications.
  • Biology support is available every day. Please email your biology teacher or Mrs Birds to arrange a suitable time for one-to-one support.

Assessment

Assessment is by 3 written examination papers and a practical endorsement.

  1. Biological processes (assessing content from modules 1, 2, 3 and 5). 2 hours 15 mins
  2. Biological diversity (assessing content from modules 1, 2, 4 and 6) 2 hours 15 mins
  3. Unified biology (assessing content from all modules 1 – 6) 1 hour 30 mins

Module 1: Development of practical skills in biology

Module 2: Foundations in biology

Module 3: Exchange and transport

Module 4: Biodiversity, evolution and disease

Module 5: Communication, homeostasis and energy

Module 6: Genetics, evolution and ecosystems

Results

2024

A* 20%

A*-B 71%

Exam board

OCR

Specification