Biology

Applications Open: - Now

Applications Close: - Friday 13th February 2026 (This is the official deadline, when planning for the new timetable will begin; however, applications may still be accepted after this date.)

Entry Requirements: - 6 GCSE passes at Grade 5+, including a minimum of Grade 5 in Mathematics and English.

How to Apply: - Apply via KentChoices

Why study this subject?

Biology is the study of Life. Understanding Biology allows for a deeper understanding of the living world and the complexities needed to survive. Biology is a diverse subject ranging from the small to the large: Biological molecules to whole ecosystems. It is a fast moving subject with new technological and medical advances occurring rapidly. Having an understanding of our own physiology, can be invaluable to the greater health of ourselves and our ever-increasing world population.

A key component of Biology is practical work where students develop new skills including but not limited to: Data Collection, ecological field work, data analysis, biochemical techniques and computer modelling.

Biology can often provide balance to other A-levels such as the Arts and Humanities, allowing for the development of transferrable skills such as problem solving, logistics, communication and numeracy, which are highly valued by a range of employers.

People who study biology tend to have careers in health and clinical professions, such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, physiotherapy, pharmacy, optometry, nursing, zoology, marine biology or forensic science. Others go on to careers in law, computing, accounting or teaching. So, whatever field you will eventually work in, you will find biology a very rewarding and challenging course which will develop many of the skills essential for a successful career.

Module 1: Development of practical skills in biology

• Skills of planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation.

Module 2: Foundations in biology

• Cell structure; Biological molecules; Nucleotides and nucleic acids; Enzymes; Biological membranes; Cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation.

Module 3: Exchange and transport

• Exchange surfaces

• Transport in animals

• Transport in plants.

Module 4: Biodiversity, evolution and disease

• Communicable diseases, disease prevention and the immune system

• Biodiversity

• Classification and evolution.

Module 5: Communications, homeostasis and energy

• Communication and homeostasis

• Excretion as an example of homeostatic control

• Neuronal communication

• Hormonal communication

• Plant and animal responses

• Photosynthesis

• Respiration.

Module 6: Genetics, evolution and ecosystems

• Cellular control

• Patterns of inheritance

• Manipulating genomes

• Cloning and biotechnology

• Ecosystems

• Populations and sustainability.

Paper 1: Biological processes

2 hours 15 minutes; 100 marks; 37% of the A Level qualification

Section A – multiple choice questions: 15 marks

Section B – structured questions covering theory and practical skills: 85 marks

Paper 2: Biological diversity

2 hours 15 minutes; 100 marks; 37% of the A Level qualification

Section A – multiple choice questions: 15 marks

Section B - structured questions covering theory and practical skills: 85 marks

Paper 3: Unified biology

1 hour 30 minutes; 70 marks; 26% of the A Level qualification

Non-exam assessment: Practical endorsement for biology: Pass/Fail (reported separately)

Candidates complete a minimum of 12 practical activities to demonstrate practical competence.

GCSE grade 6 in Biology, or 77 in Combined Science.