Biology - A Level Intensive

Biology involves the study of 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 the fields of cell biology, medicine, food production and ecology, and the work they do 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 66 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 have an interview to confirm that the course is suitable for 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.

School Leavers

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, it will be free. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.

Adults

Entry Level, Level 1, Level 2
If you will be aged 19 or older on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, your course may be free, depending on your circumstances. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.

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.