Curriculum statement

Biologists seek to understand life on many different levels from the intricacies of cell ultrastructure to the complexities of ecological interactions within ecosystems. 

Our 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 curriculum. Students' enjoyment of the subject is reflected in our A-level uptake, with over 150 students studying Biology in our sixth form, and the number of students going on to study Biology, or related degrees, at university.