Biology
at Rushcliffe Spencer Academy, Nottingham · school or sixth form
What the college says
Course aims Biology A level is designed to provide students with the opportunity to explore a wide range of biological concepts, both theoretically & experimentally. Throughout the course, students will be given the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills including experimental techniques, analytical & evaluative skills and independent research skills. The course aims to develop awareness of current biological issues and up to date theories. Course Content Development of practical skills in Biology: skills of planning, implementing, analysis & evaluation including microscopy drawing and dissection. This element is no longer assessed as practical coursework but will be examined in the written papers. Foundations in Biology: cell structure, biological molecules, nucleotides & nucleic acids, enzymes, biological membranes, cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation. Exchange and transport: exchange surfaces, transport in animals & transport in plants. Biodiversity, evolution and disease: communicable disease, disease prevention & the immune system, biodiversity, classification & evolution. Communications, homeostasis and energy: communication & homeostasis, excretion as an example of homeostatic control, neuronal communication, hormonal communication, plant & animal responses, photosynthesis & respiration. Genetics, evolution and ecosystems: cellular control, patterns of inheritance, manipulating genomes, cloning & biotechnology, ecosystems, populations & susta
What you need to get on
Grade 4 GCSE in Mathematics and English Language A minimum of five GCSEs at grades 5 and above including grade 6 in the subjects selected for A Level. *To study Further Maths a grade 7 in Mathematics GCSE is required A grade 5 in English is essential for accessing Business Studies, Economics, Government & Politics, Media, Philosophy & Ethics, Psychology and Sociology if you have not studied these subjects at GCSE. A grade 5 in Mathematics is essential for accessing Physics/Biology/Chemistry and also Business Studies, Computing, Economics and Product Design- if you have not studied these subjects at GCSE.
How you are assessed
Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.
What this level means
The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.
Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?
Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.
Where it runs
Rushcliffe School
Boundary Road West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 7BW
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 1 September 2026 · Nottingham
Who else teaches this exact qualification
Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.
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