Biology
Biology is the study of living things, how they work, how they interact and how they affect the world around us.
The A-Level course is very wide-ranging, from molecular biology to the study of ecosystems, and our teachers will make sure the course is interesting and inspiring. Biology is a subject that is relevant to everyone throughout their life and will train you to think scientifically, a skill which is useful in all careers.
You will be taught by highly qualified and experienced teachers who have a passion for Biology and will challenge you to make sure that you gain the highest possible grade at the end of the course. You will have the chance to enter for local and national Biology competitions and St Wilfrid’s has had great success in these competitions in recent years.
A large proportion of our students enjoy Biology so much that they go on to study Biology-based degrees at university, a true measure of our success.
Entry Criteria
6 in GCSE Biology (or 6:6 in Combined) and 6 in GCSE Mathematics.
Companion Subjects
Career Paths
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Medicine
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Dentistry
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Veterinary Medicine
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Nursing
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Biomedical Science
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Physiotherapy
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Pharmacy
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Conservation
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Teaching
Subject Intent
Our A-Level Biology course is all about nurturing curiosity and passion for life sciences. We want students to feel inspired by the living world—from cells and molecules to ecosystems—and equipped with the investigative, analytical, and collaborative skills needed for future studies and careers in science, healthcare, research, conservation, and more.
Course Overview
Year 12 (AS content)
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Module 1: Development of practical skills – experimental design, data handling, analysis.
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Module 2: Foundations in biology – cells, biological molecules, enzymes, and DNA.
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Module 3: Exchange & transport – gas exchange, circulation in animals and plants.
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Module 4: Biodiversity, evolution & disease – classification, evolution, communicable diseases.
Year 13 (A2 content)
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Module 5: Communications, homeostasis & energy – nerve responses, hormonal coordination, photosynthesis & respiration.
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Module 6: Genetics, evolution & ecosystems – gene expression, populations, ecosystem dynamics & conservation.
Practical work is woven throughout, building confidence and competence, all contributing to the Practical Endorsement.
Assessment
Three exams at the end of Year 13 (Paper 1 & 2: 2 h 15 m each, 37% each; Paper 3: 1 h 30 m, 26%), plus a separately reported practical endorsement.
Homework & Independent Study
Regular exam-style questions, practical write-ups, research tasks, quizzes, and guided reading or media resources to build independent study habits and deepen understanding.
Enrichment Opportunities
Workshops, guest speakers, field trips, Biology Olympiad, conservation projects, lab visits, university open days, and revision clinics to bring biology to life and foster community.
Where Can Biology Take You?
Biology paves the way to careers in medicine, veterinary sciences, environmental science, research, teaching, and biotechnology. The analytical, practical, problem-solving, and teamwork skills developed here are highly valued across all sectors—and we're with you every step of the way.