Biology Department

• 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.
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• 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.
  Course details PDF 969 KB

• 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 Standard course details PDF 1.0 MB
  IB Higher course details PDF 1.0 MB
  
  
• 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.
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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.

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.