Biology A-level
90980
- Start:
- September
- Duration:
- 2 years
- Level:
- 3
Course Details
Are you interested in the molecules of life, the physiology of your different organ systems or how natural selection leads to species diversity? Would you prefer investigating fermentation in yeast to measuring sand dune succession on Formby beach? Your A-level Biology course will cover it all - and more!
This Biology course is divided into 6 teaching modules. Modules 2-4 are covered in Year 1, and include Foundations in Biology, Exchange and Transport and Biodiversity, Evolution and Disease. In Year 2, students go on to study Module 5 (Communication, Homeostasis and Energy) and Module 6 (Genetics, Evolution and Ecosystems). The Development of Practical Skills in Biology (Module 1) is covered throughout the 2 years of the course.
Students cover a wide range of biological topics in both years of the course. The lessons are teacher-led with many paired and small group activities and theory is backed up with experimental work at every opportunity. Students will develop their practical and research skills throughout the course. There will be ample opportunity to practice exam technique and students are encouraged to discuss topical issues such as the use of stem cells in research. Students are expected to carry out independent study in addition to classwork.
A-level Biologists supplement their studies in class with a number of extra activities. Recently this has included workshops in Classification and Conservation at Chester Zoo, fieldwork to study succession at Ainsdale nature reserve, talks from past students studying Medicine at university and a visit to Liverpool University on World Cancer Research Day.
You will need a scientific calculator, in addition to basic stationery- pens, pencils, ruler, rubber, lined paper and ring binders to store notes. Students will be provided with textbooks.
The majority of A-level Biologists go on to university to study Biological Science in greater depth. Recent students have gone on to courses in Medicine, Nursing, Paramedic Science, Biomedical Science, Sports Psychology, Anatomy and Human Biology, Zoology.
You will need a minimum or five GCSEs, including English at grade 5 and Maths at grade 4 together with three other subjects at grade 4 or above.
Additional entry requirements:
- A minimum of a grade 6-6 in combined science, or grade 6 in GCSE Biology. You will also need a minimum of a grade 5 in GCSE Maths
The College will always treat each applicant as an individual. Should you not have or not expect to obtain the grades stated above, or not have relevant industry-related experience, the College would still welcome your application for this course as this will enable us to identify whether this course is, in fact, the right course for you or whether another course may be more appropriate.
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University Guarantee
Every Sefton Sixth Form College student who successfully achieves a Level 3 qualification and meets attendance and entry requirements, is guaranteed a place on a course at the Hugh Baird University Centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions that we are often asked:
Most students study 3 subjects, plus an Enhancement activity. Alongside these, students are assigned a Personal Development group and attend weekly sessions.
Yes.
Yes, students can access our Bursary Package that can help with associated costs, for example; travel, food and equipment. Find out more here.
Yes. During the interview process you will be introduced to a member of our Learner Support Team if necessary. We will take initial details of access arragements. This can be discussed again at enrolment, with follow up appointments with the team during the first few weeks of term.
Yes. You will have timetabled sessions each day of the week. There will be times when you are not in a lesson; this is your personal study time. During these sessions you will be completing activities which mean you are prepared for your subject lessons. This includes completing homework, revision, Brainscape decks, coursework tasks etc.
