Biology Department

Our department is one of the largest in the College and also incorporates Applied Science and GCSE Science. We are a very dynamic department, always looking to keep up-to-date with recent biological studies and developments. We have eleven biology specialist teachers and three technicians within the department, between us we have many years of teaching and examining experience on a range of related courses for a variety of examining boards.

Courses offered by the department

AS Biology (AQA and Salters), Pre U Biology, IB Biology, AS Applied Science and GCSE Science.

We offer two A’ level Biology courses as the two courses suit different students learning styles and such allows a wider range of students to achievement qualifications in this diverse subject.

AQA and SALTERS Biology courses are very similar in terms of their subject content.

There are slight differences in ways the courses are delivered, with AQA being a slightly more traditional content focused and Salters being more context focused.

The main differences however are in the way that the practical component of each course is assessed;

  • AQAs assessment is via a practical style examination for both AS and A2 level,
  • Salters has a visit report on a topic of biological interest for AS and an individual practical investigation for A2.


  • AS AQA Biology – This is a course which combines a study of basic biological topics with consideration of some recent advances, is scientifically and intellectually rigorous, but fascinating. It emphasises the way in which biologists work and the contribution of biology to society in a way that underpins the specification. It is an interesting subject in its own right, stimulating concern and respect for all life, developing key skills and increasing understanding of scientific principles. (Subject information)

  • AS SALTERS Biology – Biology (Salters-Nuffield) is a scientifically and intellectually rigorous course, which combines a study of basic biological topics with a consideration of some recent advances. It is an interesting subject in its own right, stimulating concern and respect for all life, developing key skills and increasing understanding of scientific principles and method. The Salters-Nuffield specification varies from traditional A-level courses in that is taught through eight contemporary context-led topics and has been designed to motivate students by helping them to realise how an understanding of many of today’s contemporary issues the knowledge and understanding of basic biological principles. (Subject information)

  • Pre U Biology – The Cambridge Pre-U Biology diploma is an exciting new post-16 qualification. It prepares students with the skills and knowledge they need to make a success of their subsequent studies in this subject and as such is suitable for those students who are planning to go onto study Biology related courses at University. This is a second year course which runs alongside one of the two A2 Biology courses. (Subject information)

  • IB Biology – The IB Biology course combines the study of basic biological topics with a consideration of recent developments within a global context. It is hoped that students will acquire a large body of facts and at the same time develop a broad, general understanding of the principles of Biology. It is also important be able to apply, analyse and evaluate scientific information and be aware of effective collaboration and communication during scientific activities. Students will also develop investigative scientific skills, become aware of moral and ethical issues and experience the international dimensions whilst studying a science. TOK is also covered in appropriate topics where aspects of the scientific way are addressed. (IB Higher subject information) (IB Standard subject information)

  • AS Applied Science – The Applied Science course will allow you to study how science is applied in many different types of professions and industries. The focus of the course is scientific usage, concentrating on how scientists and others use science in their work. You will also learn how science contributes to our lifestyle and the environment in which we live. (Subject information)

  • GCSE Core Science – GCSE Science will be offered as a single award following the AQA Science A specifications. This course is primarily offered to allow students who do not have a Grade C in a Science subject to achieve this target. It is not a suitable preparation for AS level Biology, Chemistry or Physics but may be suitable for other courses at AS requiring a GCSE in Science. The course concentrates on ‘How Science Works’ and the coursework will involve obtaining practical data individually and then sitting a written exam using the data collected. (Subject information)

Trips and Visits

The Biology Department runs a number of trips every academic year, including;

  • A visit to Colchester Zoo to look at Biodiversity and Conservation as part of both AS Biology courses and the IB Biology course.
  • Fieldwork is an essential part of any Biology course and both AS Biology courses have a requirement for students to carry out Field work investigations during the end of the summer term in the first year.
  • The AS Applied Science course requires students to go on trips to various local places of scientific interest.
  • We have very good links with Essex University, and provide an opportunity for students to attend a conference where they get a ‘taste’ of university life and what it might be like to study biology at degree level.
  • Finally there is a Biology trip to South Africa for a limited numbers of Biology students, looking at the conservation of animals in Africa. Support and extension activities

The Biology department runs a range of support and extension sessions every week to enhance students’ achievement on our courses. These range from drop in support sessions for students who require one of help with specific topics or pieces of work and re-sit classes to support A2 students who are re-sitting AS units in the second year. We also offer extension classes which stretch are more able students beyond the course specifications and allow some the opportunity to sit the Biology Olympiad papers each year.