The Biology curriculum is designed to develop students’ curiosity about the natural world and deepen their understanding of living systems. This course combines theoretical knowledge with practical investigation, encouraging students to think critically, analyse data, and explore the connections between biology and society. It is ideal for students considering careers in science, healthcare, or environmental fields.

What will you study?

Students follow the OCR A Level Biology specification, which includes:

• 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

Assessment

Assessment is through three written examinations at the end of the course:

• Paper 1: 2 hours 15 minutes – 37% of the A Level (Modules 1, 2, 3 and 5)
• Paper 2: 2 hours 15 minutes – 37% of the A Level (Modules 1, 2, 4 and 6)
• Paper 3: 1 hour 30 minutes – 26% of the A Level (Modules 1–6, including practical skills and data analysis)

There is also a practical endorsement, assessed separately on a pass/fail basis.

Entry requirements

To study Biology, students should have:

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 9–4 (or equivalent)
• A Grade 6 in Biology or 6-6 in Combined Science
• A Grade 6 in English is also recommended for success in this subject

Enrichment opportunities

Students benefit from a range of enrichment activities, including:

• Practical lab work and field investigations
• Biology-related trips and workshops
• Guest speakers from scientific and healthcare professions
• Support for university applications in science-related fields

These experiences help students apply their learning in real-world contexts and develop broader skills in research, analysis, and communication.

Progression and careers

Studying Biology opens doors to a wide range of university courses and career pathways, including:

• Medicine, Veterinary Science, Biomedical Science, Ecology, Genetics, Nursing, Zoology, and Marine Biology
• Transferable skills in data analysis, scientific reasoning, and problem-solving

This subject is highly regarded by universities and employers in science, healthcare, and research sectors.

“I chose Biology as the classes really help me to understand what goes on around us in everyday life from plants to the human body. The teachers strive to help you achieve your goals and deliver lessons in a captivating manner. My favourite part about the course so far is the practical element. We do lots of experiments and I find this really helps you understand the content using a hands-on approach.”
— Jacob Bolton