GCSE

GCSE Specification and Curriculum Overview

Exam Specification: Edexcel (9-1) Biology

All students will study Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate sciences in Years 9 to 11 and will obtain three GCSEs, one in each science. Students will study in mixed ability teaching groups. 

In Biology, students will study a range of topics, beginning with key concepts in biology such as cells, microscopy, enzymes and transport processes. Students move on to learn about DNA and inheritance, evolution and classification, disease and material cycles, before exploring organisms on a systems-level in topics such as transport in animals and plants, homeostasis, endocrine signalling and the nervous system. Students are encouraged to be independent in their learning, to be curious and to extend their understanding beyond the curriculum. Through practical work, students are given the opportunity to develop the ability to make accurate observations, manipulate scientific equipment, analyse data, evaluate methodology and draw conclusions while investigative approaches encourage inquiry-based learning and a greater depth of understanding. The excellent subject knowledge and varied experience of our teaching staff means students are provided with real-life applications and contexts, which only serve to further enrich their experience of the GCSE curriculum. Students' enjoyment of the subject at GCSE is reflected in our A-level uptake, with over 150 students studying Biology in our sixth form.

Year 8 to Year 9 Summer Transition Work 

Sign up to Seneca Learning (it is easy to make a free account). 

Select the course Biology: Edexcel GCSE Higher 

Complete sections 1.1.1 - 1.1.3 on Cell Structures and Processes 

Examples of Work