Biology - A Level (AQA)

Biology is the study of life! During this course you will study the essential molecules, as simple as nucleotides, and how these can be repeated over long chains, to code for proteins to form complex human beings. There will be the opportunity to view cells on a microscopic scale and investigate their fine workings.

You will also study the devastating impacts of mutations during DNA replication that can lead to the development of tumours. 

You will have the opportunity to practise your critical and analytical thinking skills and gain insight into how the world around you works.

You will become a problem solver when designing and implementing different biological investigations and studying the different interactions between organisms and the ecosystem.

Topics covered can include:

• Topic 1 Biological Molecules
• Topic 2 Cells
• Topic 3 Organisms exchange of substances with their environment
• Topic 4 Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
• Topic 5 Energy transfers in and between organisms
• Topic 6 Organisms' response to changes in their internal and external environments
• Topic 7 Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
• Topic 8 The control of gene expression

You must have:

Minimum entry requirements in GCSEs -

Biology + Chemistry

• 66 (Double Science GCSE)
• 6 (First Separate Science) 
• 6 (Second Separate Science) 
• 5 (Third Separate Science)
• 6 (Maths)
• 5 (English Language)
• 3 GCSEs at grade 5+ 2 further GCSEs at grade 4+ (G Score)

Biology + Psychology

• 66 (Double Science GCSE)
• 6 (First Separate Science) 
• 6 (Second Separate Science) 
• 5 (Third Separate Science)
• 6 (Maths)
• 5 (English Language)
• G Score must be 6+ (G Score)

A reference from your previous school/college

All applicants must have an interview to confirm that A Levels are suitable for them.

When applying for an A Level programme at Westminster Kingsway, please refer to the general entry requirements on our A Level Courses page as well as the subject-specific details listed above.

During the first year, you will have an initial assessment followed by four progress assessments throughout year 12. You must pass the assessment at the end of the first year to process on to the second year.

At the end of the second year, you will sit three public examinations. You will also be assessed throughout the year on practical work completed to achieve your practical endorsement.

Aged 16-18

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August prior to the start date of your course and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your programme then your study with us will be free. Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.

Some courses will have other associated costs, such as for specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.

Many students who study Biology will go on to study subjects such as:

• Biomedical Sciences
• Physiotherapy
• Life Sciences
• Microbiology
• Marine Biology
• Conservation
• Veterinary Science and Pharmacy
• as well as those who go on to become medical professionals.

Click here to see some of the teachers that teach A Levels at the college