Do you have any questions about the course?
- Amy Simons
- amy.simons@swale.at
Biology A Level
Whitstable School, The
Bellevue Road, Whitstable, Kent, CT5 1PX
Available start dates
Available start dates
Application Instructions
Applications open:- Monday 4th November at 9.00am
Applications close:- 25th August 2026
Entry Requirements: - They vary for each course.
How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices.
Course Summary
If you have a genuine interest in living organisms, the environment, genetics, and human biology, studying A-level Biology can help you deepen your knowledge and understanding in these areas. It Involves problem-solving, analysis, and evaluation of scientific information. It can help you develop critical thinking skills that are valuable in various aspects of life and different career paths. Studying A-level Biology can deepen your understanding of the natural world, including the diversity of living organisms, ecosystems, human biology, and the impact of human activities on the environment. A- level Biology can enhance research skills, practical laboratory skills, and ability to communicate scientific ideas effectively. These skills are valuable for personal growth and in various professions.
Course Details
Units that will be studied
The course is comprised of 6 units:
• Unit 1: Development of practical skills in biology
• Unit 2: Foundations in biology
• Unit 3: Exchange and transport
• Unit 4: Biodiversity, evolution and disease
• Unit 5: Communication, homeostasis and energy
• Unit 6: Genetics, evolution and ecosystems
How will it be delivered and assessed?
Biological processes Paper 1 2hr 15min written exam covering content from units 1,2, 3 and 5 37%
Biological diversity Paper 2 2hr 15min written exam covering content from units 1, 2, 4 and 6 37%
Unified biology Paper 3 1hr 30min written exam covering content from units 1-6 26%
Practical endorsement in Biology: non exam assessment, reported separately.
Exams are made up of a mixture of different length questions ranging from 1 mark up to 10 marks. Papers 1 and 2 will consist of multiple-choice questions, shorter structured questions that will be
designed to test mainly knowledge and understanding of the specification content of the particular topics. Longer questions will also test the students’ skills of interpretation and evaluation of data. Students may be required to apply their knowledge and understanding of biology to situations that they have not seen before.
Entry requirements
Grade 6 in Biology and Chemistry or grade 66 in combined science, grade 6 in maths and grade 5 in English language
Your next steps...
The A Level Biology A course will prepare you for progression to undergraduate study, enabling you to enter a range of academic and vocational careers in biological sciences, medicine and biomedical sciences, veterinary science, agriculture and related sectors. For those wishing to follow an apprenticeship route or seeking direct entry into biological science careers, this A level provides a strong background and progression pathway.
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