A Level in Biology

Applications Open - Monday 27 October 2025

Applications Close - Open all year

How to Apply – Please apply through KentChoices and use your KentChoices login which your school should provide

PLEASE NOTE - Popular courses can fill up quickly so apply early to avoid disappointment

If you have any queries regarding the courses, please contact EKC Canterbury College

You can make up to 5 applications to Colleges within the EKC Group, that is:

• EKC Ashford College
• EKC Broadstairs College*
• EKC Canterbury College*
• EKC Dover College
• EKC Folkestone College*
• EKC Sheppey College

*Junior Colleges exist in these locations.

Please only add one course or T Level per application, except for A Levels at EKC Canterbury College, where up to 4 A Level courses can be added per application. At your interview, you and the tutors can discuss the best level and courses in order for you to progress.

Are you curious about the world around you? From bacteria to bananas, DNA to polar bears, Biology is the fascinating study of all living things on earth. Biology is at the forefront of ecological issues and allows you an insight into the structure, evolution and development of complex living systems.

You will gain a greater understanding of how systems can be created, sustained and damaged. Alongside this, you will develop and hone a range of skills - practical and technical, as well as analysis, communication and problem solving.

You will learn about molecules and cells of which living organisms are made and how these exchange materials and energy.

You will learn how to use scientific equipment accurately and discover how to collect and properly interpret data.

Progression onto Year Two

Progression to the second year of this A Level course will be dependent on having made satisfactory progress in the first year of the course, including achieving at least an E grade in a formal late spring assessment, as well as the maintenance of a good level of attendance and commitment throughout the year.

There are three external examinations taken at the end of the second year of study.

There is a mix of short and long answer structured questions, as well as comprehension and essay writing.

A separate endorsement of practical skills (called CPAC) will be taken alongside the A Level. This is assessed by direct observation of practical competency by your teacher, and not assessed in the written exams.

General entry requirements:

To study this A Level, you’ll need a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 6 or above across your top six subjects with at least a grade 6 or above in Maths and a grade 5 or above English Language or Literature.

Please note: your GPA average can include English and Maths.

Subject-specific entry requirements:

To study Biology, you’ll need a grade 6 or above in Maths, a 5 or above in English Language or Literature, a grade 5 or above in a single Science Biology or a 5 and 5 or above in Combined Science.

As a STEM subject, a Biology A Level demonstrates strong scientific and academic capability, and is an excellent base for degrees in healthcare and biological sciences.

It complements study in environmental and sports sciences as well as psychology.

A Biology qualification can open a variety of career opportunities, too. Employers who typically recruit graduates for biology-related jobs include:

• Universities and clinical research organisations
• Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies
• Private hospitals and NHS trusts
• Health conservation and environmental charities
• Scientific and technical consultancies
• Outreach organisations