IB Biology

Applications Open - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close - 3rd April 2026

Entry Requirements -

IBDP - 6 Grade 6s

IBCP - 5 Grade 5s

Level 3 - 4 Grade 4s

Level 2 - dependent

How to Apply - Please apply via KentChoices

To apply for courses at TMS sixth form please select the subject combination you wish to apply for. The combinations as described are subject to change so please put in your ideal choices, even if they do not match the options grid.

All course options will be confirmed post interviews.

When you access the application page you will be shown a list of subjects only. Please note they will not be separated into the 3 different pathways (vocational, IBCP, IBDP)

For those wishing to apply for the level1/2 vocational pathway, please select this as an option. You do not need to select any further subjects and individual choices will be confirmed at interview.

For those wishing to apply for the IBCP or IBDP pathway please select the individual choices from the list.

Level1/2 Vocational pathway

Select the Level1/2 vocational pathway only

Biology is the study of living organisms; the name derives from the Greek words ‘bio’ (life) and ‘logos’ (studies).

Biologists link chemistry and physics to explain how all forms of life exist. There are many specialist fields focused on the morphology, physiology, anatomy, behaviour, origin, and distribution of organisms.

Biology is often studied along with other science-based subjects such as chemistry, physics, maths, psychology, and computer science. However, an understanding of biology is vital to many other fields and can be useful in everyday life.

Biology also requires methodical and analytical skills which is a focus of IB during lab sessions and through completing the IA.

Curriculum

Term 1 2 3 4 5 6

Year 12 Basic biochemistry and cell structure Nucleotide structure and function, and transport in cells Metabolism in plants and animals, and cell division Genetics and evolution Inheritance and natural selection Genetic modification, taxonomy, and introduction to the IA

Year 13 Ecosystem structure and human impacts, and the digestive system Exchange systems and circulatory systems IA and regulation systems Exam preparation IB Exams

Students at standard level and higher level undertake a common core syllabus, a common internal assessment (IA) scheme and have some overlapping elements in the option studied. They are presented with a syllabus that encourages the development of certain skills, attributes and attitudes.

While the skills and activities of science subjects are common to students at both standard level and higher level, students at higher level are required to study some topics in greater depth, in the additional higher level material and in the common options. The distinction between standard level and higher level is one of breadth and depth.

Assessment

Higher Level Paper 1 1 hr multiple choice Paper 2 2 hrs 15 mins 1 hr 15 mins Internal assessment 10 hrs 20% weighting

Standard Level Paper 1 45 mins multiple choice Paper 2 1 hr 15 Paper 3 1 hour Internal assessment 10 hrs 20% weighting

General entry requirements:

International Baccalaureate Diploma: 6 x grade 6 or above, including Maths and English (GCSE or equivalent)

International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme: 5 x grade 5 or above, including Maths and English (GCSE or equivalent)

We have a strong history of students progressing on to university or apprenticeships