GCSE BIOLOGY

What does this qualification cover?

Biology is the study of life’s processes from incredibly microscopic cell level interactions to macro scale systems such as the digestive, circulatory and nervous systems of living organisms. At UTC Heathrow, we utilise the field of Biology to understand how energy flows in and out of living things, and to deconstruct the methods by which substances move within organisms, as well as between organisms and their immediate environment. It is a fascinating field of study with plenty of real world relevance, in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. This qualification addresses the most pressing need of our times – to have a greater understanding of human health and well-being, as well as the mechanisms of actions for pathogens and other microbial life forms.

What’s included?

The AQA Biology course covers the following topics:

  1. Cell biology
  2. Organisation
  3. Infection and response
  4. Bioenergetics
  5. Homeostasis and response
  6. Inheritance, variation and evolution
  7. Ecology
  8. Key ideas

At the end of year 11, our students sit 2 papers in Biology, each one worth 100 marks and 105 mins long. Students will receive one separate Science GCSE grade for Biology.

Key Features

  • At least 10 practical experiments over the two year course, allowing for plenty of inquiry into real world phenomena, and providing students with a hands-on approach to their learning
  • Comprehensive schemes of work and pedagogy, as well as access to past papers, mark schemes, examiner reports, specimen papers and a vast array of resources developed by our experienced teaching staff
  • Differentiated learning materials tailored to every student’s needs
  • State-of-the-art laboratories for testing various scientific principles, techniques or experiments, including access to microscopes and other observational tools

Links to workplace

Employers recruiting graduates for biology-related jobs include:

  • Universities and clinical research organisations
  • Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies
  • Private hospitals and NHS trusts
  • National and global health, conservation and environmental charities
  • Scientific and technical consultancies
  • Schools and colleges
  • Outreach organisations, such as museums, science centres and broadcast companies.

Many biology graduates pursue opportunities outside the science, education and health sectors in industries such as business, finance, the civil service, marketing and sales.

APPLY FOR

Year 10

APPLY FOR

Year 12

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