Biology A Level (OCR)

Applications Open: - 7th November 2025

Applications Close: - 8th June 2026 (Applications will still be considered after this date)

Other Information:- Please select a minimum of three A-Level courses. Contact Mark.Shenton@sandwich-tech.kent.sch.uk for further course information

Entry Requirements: Some courses have additional entry requirements. These can be found on the prospectus.

Level 3 - 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or higher including English and Mathematics.

Transition - 5 GCSEs at grade 3 or higher. Either English or Mathematics must be at a grade 4.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

Questions/Queries:-Mark.shenton@sandwich-tech.kent.sch.uk

Site Tours:- Mark.shenton@sandwich-tech.kent.sch.uk

Why study this subject?

Have you ever wondered how genes can be used today to identify people in crimes or how we might use stem cells to help someone walk again? Perhaps you want to know how even after catastrophic events, life has returned to the area. If these are questions that resonate with you then this could be the A level for you. Biology is a subject that is seen as a gateway course to many science qualifications at

university. Practical activities are embedded within the course to enhance your practical skills.

Students have the amazing opportunity to undertake a 2-week biological expedition overseas through Operation Wallacea.

Units that will be studied

The course comprises 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

Assessment

Paper 1- 2hr written 15min examination covering content from units 1,2, 3 and 5 37%

Paper 2- 2hr 15min written examination covering content from units 1, 2, 4 and 6 37%

Paper 3- 1hr 30min written examination covering content from units 1-6 26%

STS Sixth Form offers a broad range of A Level and Applied general qualifications that will prepare you for university or employment. To access this route, you will need to have at least 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Math's; however, some subjects have specific entry criteria. You will study a programme that can be tailored to meet your interests and future aspirations to give you the best chance of academic success. This programme is a two-year linear course. To study four level 3 courses, you must have at least 5 GCSEs at grade 7 or above. All courses are subject to change and are not set in stone.

Additional Entry Requirements

Minimum of grade 5 or above in Mathematics and a grade 7-6 or above in Combined Science or a grade 6 in Biology.