Biology has a higher profile today than perhaps at any other time and this is reflected in the number of people studying a biology-based course at college and university.

Ethical debates centre around animal experimentation, cloning, genetically modified crops, embryo and fertility research and the human genome project and its use. High on the political agenda are health, pollution, environmental protection and food safety. AIDS, heart disease, cancer, drug use and misuse and malnutrition all continue to present us with challenges.

Biologists have a great contribution to make in ensuring the world is a healthier and happier one for humans, animals and plants alike. Studying a biological subject at AS and A2 level will give the scientific basis to understand and be involved in the biological issues, either in a professional capacity or as an informed member of society. Students will learn to analyse and evaluate information in an objective way and to draw their own conclusions.

 

Entry with:

GCSE grade B in Biology and Chemistry or GCSE grade B in Science and Additional Science. 

• • All A level students have the opportunity to participate in either a residential fieldcourse in North Norfolk or in a day course nearer to Cambridge.
• • We have extensive links with local industry, research institutes and other educational institutions. We provide visits to places of biolgoical interest and have a regular programme of visiting speakers.
• • Year 13 students have the opportunity to follow an Open University short course in either Human Genetics and Health Issues, or Molecules, Medicines and Drugs: a chemical story.
• • The department has strong links with the Society of Biology, the professional body for biologists.
• • Regular surgeries are available to help any student encountering problems with particular topics or skills. There are also Saturday and Sunday whole-day surgeries prior to major exams.

 

Awarding body: OCR

AS Level Units

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Advanced (A2) Level Units

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• • Four well-equipped laboratories and a resources room with a suite of 7 computers and facilities for individual practical and project work.
• • A department intranet site.
• • An extensive bank of teaching resources written by members of the department.
• • A highly qualified and experienced teaching staff including four PhDs, two Open University associate lecturers, a fellow of Christ's College, Cambridge, a major author of health education teaching resources, a Senior Examiner for the AQA examination board and an ILT champion.