Biology A Level

Applications Open - 1st November 2025

Applications Close - 15th December 2025

Entry Requirements - Candidates are required to obtain a minimum of 35 points from their best six GCSE subjects or equivalent (in the view of the School).

• Points will be on a 1-9 point scale, where Grade 1=1 and 2=2 etc.

• Candidates must also obtain at least a Grade 5 in English and Maths at GCSE or equivalent (in the view of the School).

Candidates must meet the specific requirements for each A Level course they wish to study as published in the 2025 Sixth Form Prospectus, which will be available on the website.

How to Apply - Do not apply through Kent Choices. Please apply via Cranbrook School Website using the following link: https://www.cranbrookschool.co.uk/admissions/sixth-form-admissions/

The OCR Biology A course is aimed at challenging learners and preparing them for the eventuality of becoming independent in the ‘real wide world’.

It is a course suitable for people who are curious about how their body works and how the world around them can influence their decisions.

The aims of the course are to encourage students to:

• Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of biology, including developing an interest in further study and careers in biology.
• Appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.
• Develop and demonstrate a confidence in using a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills that will open many doors to further education or employment.

AS

Module 1: Development of practical skills

Module 2: Foundations in biology (cells, biological modules, DNA, enzymes, cell membranes, cell division and cell organisation)

Module 3: Exchange and transport (transport in animals and plants, including breathing and circulation)

Module 4: Biodiversity, evolution and disease (diseases, disease prevention, biodiversity, classification and evolution)

A2

Module 5: Communication, homeostasis and energy (homeostasis, excretion, nerves, hormones, animal responses, photosynthesis and respiration)

Module 6: Control, genomes and environment (cellular control, inheritance, genomes, cloning, biotechnology, ecosystems and sustainability)

Minimum Grade 7 in GCSE Biology or minimum Grade 7 in the Biology component of the Combined Science Award.

Many employers and Universities are looking for students who study biology. It is a challenging but very rewarding course that will enhance your skills and opportunities. The range of biological subjects that you can further study is vast. It includes medical related fields, but also sports science, physiotherapy, psychology, pharmacology, agriculture, the environment, applied genetics, biochemistry and ecology. It is a very useful course that complements many other subjects including physics, chemistry, physical education, geography and mathematics.