Biology - A Level Intensive

Biology involves studying a wide range of exciting topics, ranging from molecular biology to the study of ecosystems and from microorganisms to mammoths.

Biology is never far from the headlines either; the human genome has been sequenced and we know the complete arrangement of the three thousand million bases that make up human DNA. In Kenya, 350 people die every day from AIDS and in South East Asia, the skies are dark with smoke as the last Bornean rainforests are burned to grow oil palms. Biologists are concerned with all these issues. They work in cell biology, medicine, food production and ecology, and their work is vital to us all.

Topics covered can include:

• Biological molecules
• Cells
• Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
• Energy transfers in and between organisms
• Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
• The control of gene expression

For applicants who are under the age of 18, the standard A Level programme is recommended. However, applicants aged 18 and over will be considered for the A Level Intensive course if they have already proven a record of achievement at A level or an equivalent level 3 qualification e.g. Grade D achieved in A Levels.

To study this A Level Intensive, you will need:

• A proven track record of achievement at A Level or an equivalent level 3 qualification e.g. Grade D achieved in previous A Levels
• GCSE Science at grade 6-6 or above
• GCSE Maths at grade 6
• GCSE English Language at grade 5
• One further GCSE at grade 4 or above
• Admission onto this course is subject to passing an entrance test set at AS level
• A reference from your previous school/college

All applicants must take an entry test and interview to confirm that the course suits them.

During the year there will be formal internal assessments which you will need to pass in order to be entered into the final three public written examinations. You will also need to complete a practical endorsement assessment.

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.

Adults - Level 3

If you will be aged 19 to 23 prior to the start date of your course, and do not already have a full Level 3 qualification, you may be eligible for a Level 3 entitlement, in which case your study with us will be free. If you are older, or already have a Level 3, we have many other Level 3 courses that are also free to study. Otherwise, you will have to pay the fees yourself or apply for an Advanced Learner Loan.

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.

A Levels are widely regarded as the standard entry qualification for top universities in the UK, and the rest of the world. Many of our students go onto study for a degree at the university of their choice, with some choosing to progress into apprenticeships or other employment.