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Biology

Assessment: Exam (100%) Students must also produce a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate their competence in a variety of practical tasks (Practical Endorsement).
Exam Board: OCR
Duration: 2 Years
Costs: £30 for textbooks and practice exam papers, plus optional field trips and visits
Entry Requirements: English Language or Literature grade 4, Maths grade 5, Biology grade 6 or 66 in Core Science & Additional Science. Plus three grade 4s from your remaining subjects.
Curriculum Leader: Shanthi Pandit

COURSE OVERVIEW

Focusing on the structure and functions of a variety of organisms and considering human interactions with the environment, this course will also provide you with an appreciation of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.

COURSE STRUCTURE

Before You Start

You may be required to complete an activity before you start in order to help introduce you to the subject. Check back in the summer term for more details.

Year 1

Year one builds on knowledge from GCSE studying humans as organisms, exchange and transport, biodiversity, evolution and health, as well as introducing new topics such as cell ultrastructure and biochemistry. In year two, areas of study will include the endocrine and nervous systems, genetics, biotechnology and conservation.

Biology is an experimental science so you will carry out a range of laboratory or field-based activities to enhance your understanding and develop your practical skills. Fieldwork is carried out within the College grounds or around the Henley area, supported by optional one-day trips out.

Year 2

In year two, areas of study will include the endocrine and nervous systems, genetics, biotechnology and conservation. Biology is an experimental science so you will carry out a range of laboratory or field-based activities to enhance your understanding and develop your practical skills.

You are also encouraged to supplement your programme with the Extended Project.

Find out more about The Extended Project

LIFE AFTER HENLEY

A key course for students planning to continue on to university to study subjects including medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, biochemistry, marine biology, midwifery, nursing, environmental science, physiotherapy and sports science. It also provides a strong grounding for those wishing to pursue many other subject areas at degree level.

Alternatively, students may consider direct entry into employment or further training.

Careers

There are many options for students wishing to pursue a career in Biology, including teacher, researcher, laboratory work, medical sales, science writing, healthcare and more. Students may consider direct entry into employment or further training.

Higher Education

A key course for students planning to continue on to university to study subjects including medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, biochemistry, marine biology, midwifery, nursing, environmental science, physiotherapy and sports science. It also provides a strong grounding for those wishing to pursue many other subject areas at degree level.

ENRICHMENT

Students are required to complete at least 30 hours of enrichment per academic year whilst studying at The Henley College, learn more about Enrichment here.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Learn more about our application process here.