BIOLOGY A Level 3

Applications Open: - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - We would, ideally, like applications to be submitted by Thursday 8th January 2026, when planning for the timetable will begin, but applications will be accepted after this date

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

Minimum Entry Requirements

The admissions criteria for the Sixth Form are as follows:

- A minimum of 6 separately identifiable GCSE subjects (or equivalent) at an average grade of 5.5 or above

- These 6 subjects must include at least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and at least a grade 4 in Mathematics

- You will require a grade 6 or above in most subjects you wish to study at A Level

- To study Mathematics, Modern Foreign Languages or a Science subject you will require a grade 7

- To study Economics a grade 7 or above in Mathematics is required and a 6+ or above in Business or a related subject

- Students may be able to study a Science subject with a 6 grade but their 4th option choice must be STEM Access forming part of your Personal Enrichment Pathway

- For Further Mathematics you will need an 8 or 9

- Short Courses count as half a GCSE

- A positive attitude in your chosen subjects and a respect for school aims, objectives and ethos

- Commitment to the expectations of the Sixth Form and the school community

- Students will not be admitted if they have not completed the appropriate paperwork

The aim of this 2 year A Level Biology course is to develop an essential knowledge and understanding of biological processes together with an understanding of the diversity of the living world and practical skills.

The specification is divided into topics, each covering different key concepts of biology. Teaching of practical skills is integrated with the theoretical topics and contributes to the achievement of the Practical Endorsement which is internally assessed.

The aim of this 2 year A Level Biology course is to develop an essential knowledge and understanding of biological processes together with an understanding of the diversity of the living world and practical skills.

The specification is divided into topics, each covering different key concepts of biology. Teaching of practical skills is integrated with the theoretical topics and contributes to the achievement of the Practical Endorsement which is internally assessed.

The qualification is assessed through three 2 hour written papers taken at the end of the 2 year course.

It is important to note that A-Level Biology now has a more demanding mathematical content including statistics, which will account for 10% of the A-Level.

The course is organised into 6 modules:

• 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

Module 1: Practical endorsement in Biology

Module 1 of the specification content relates to the practical skills learners are expected to gain throughout the course, which are assessed throughout the written examinations and also through the Practical Endorsement. The development of practical skills is a fundamental and integral aspect of the study of any scientific subject. These skills not only enhance learners’ understanding of the subject but also serve as a suitable preparation for the demands of studying biology at a higher level. A minimum of 12 practical activities are carried out by each student which, together, meet the requirements for the practical endorsement. Each student will keep an appropriate record of their assessed practical activities. Students who demonstrate the required standard across all the requirements of the Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC) will receive a ‘pass’ grade.

Module 2: Foundations in Biology

All living organisms have similarities in cellular structure, biochemistry and function. An understanding of these similarities is fundamental to the study of the subject. This module gives learners the opportunity to use microscopy to study the cell structure of a variety of organisms. Biologically important molecules such as carbohydrates, proteins, water and nucleic acids are studied with respect to their structure and function. The structure and mode of action of enzymes in catalysing biochemical reactions is studied.

Membranes form barriers within, and at the surface of, cells. This module also considers the way in which the structure of membranes relates to the different methods by which molecules enter and leave cells and organelles. The division and subsequent specialisation of cells is studied, together with the potential for the therapeutic use of stem cells. Learners are expected to apply knowledge, understanding and other skills developed in this module to new situations and/or to solve related problems.

Module 3: Exchange and transport

In this module, learners study the structure and function of gas exchange and transport systems in a range of animals and in terrestrial plants. The significance of surface area to volume ratio in determining the need for ventilation, gas exchange and transport systems in multicellular organisms is emphasised. The examples of terrestrial green plants and a range of animal phyla are used to illustrate the principle. Learners are expected to apply knowledge, understanding and other skills developed in this module to new situations and/ or to solve related problems.

Module 4: Biodiversity, evolution and disease

In this module the learners study about the biodiversity of organisms; how they are classified and the ways in which biodiversity can be measured. It serves as an introduction to ecology, emphasising practical techniques and an appreciation of the need to maintain biodiversity. The learners also gain an understanding of the variety of organisms that are pathogenic and the way in which plants and animals have evolved defences to deal with disease. The impact of the evolution of pathogens on the treatment of disease is also considered. The relationships between organisms are studied, considering variation, evolution and phylogeny. Learners are expected to apply knowledge, understanding and other skills developed in this module to new situations and/or to solve related problems.

Module 5: Communication, homeostasis and energy

It is important that organisms, both plants and animals are able to respond to stimuli. This is achieved by communication within the body, which may be chemical and/or electrical. Both systems are covered in detail in this module. Communication is also fundamental to homeostasis with control of temperature, blood sugar and blood water potential being studied as examples.

In this module, the biochemical pathways of photosynthesis and respiration are considered, with an emphasis on the formation and use of ATP as the source of energy for biochemical processes and synthesis of biological molecules. Learners are expected to apply knowledge, understanding and other skills developed in this module to new situations and/or to solve related problems.

Module 6: Genetics, evolution and ecosystems

This module covers the role of genes in regulating and controlling cell function and development. Heredity and the mechanisms of evolution and specification are also covered.

Some of the practical techniques used to manipulate DNA such as sequencing and amplification are considered and its therapeutic medical use. The use of microorganisms in biotechnology is also covered. Both of these have associated ethical considerations and it is important that learners develop a balanced understanding of such issues.

Learners gain an appreciation of the role of microorganisms in recycling materials within the environment and maintaining balance within ecosystems. The need to conserve environmental resources in a sustainable fashion is considered, whilst appreciating the potential conflict arising from the needs of an increasing human population. Learners also consider the impacts of human activities on the natural environment and biodiversity.

Learners are expected to apply knowledge, understanding and other skills developed in this module to new situations and/or to solve related problems.

The qualification is assessed through three 2 hour written papers taken at the end of the 2 year course.

The admissions criteria for the Sixth Form are as follows:

- A minimum of 6 separately identifiable GCSE subjects (or equivalent) at an average grade of 5.5 or above

- These 6 subjects must include at least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and at least a grade 4 in Mathematics

- You will require a grade 6 or above in most subjects you wish to study at A Level

- To study Mathematics, Modern Foreign Languages or a Science subject you will require a grade 7

- To study Economics a grade 7 or above in Mathematics is required and a 6+ or above in Business or a related subject

- Students may be able to study a Science subject with a 6 grade but their 4th option choice must be STEM Access forming part of your Personal Enrichment Pathway.

- For Further Mathematics you will need an 8 or 9

- Short Courses count as half a GCSE

- A positive attitude in your chosen subjects and a respect for school aims, objectives and ethos

- Commitment to the expectations of the Sixth Form and the school community

- Students will not be admitted if they have not completed the appropriate paperwork

You could take this course with other advanced level courses, which overlap with Biology such as Chemistry, Applied Science, Physics, Geography, Geology or more general subjects that may not relate to the sciences, to prepare for higher education. With further training, you could go into a job related to Biology or one of the other sciences such as a Doctor, Nurse, Scientist or Marine Biologist. The course will also help you to develop the basic skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers across lots of industries are looking for.