Qualification: A Level Biology
Exam Board: OCR (Specification A - H420)
A Level Biology is a fascinating and challenging course that explores the science of life, from the molecules inside cells to entire ecosystems. You will investigate topics such as genetics, human physiology, biodiversity, evolution and disease, while developing practical laboratory skills and analytical thinking. The course encourages curiosity, problem-solving and independent study, making it an excellent choice for students interested in medicine, healthcare, environmental science, research or a wide range of science-related careers.
The course is split into 6 modules .
• Module 1: Development of practical skills in biology (assessed in all papers).
• Module 2: Foundations in biology (Cells, Biological molecules, DNA, Enzymes).
• Module 3: Exchange and transport (Plants and Animals).
• Module 4: Biodiversity, evolution, and disease.
• Module 5: Communication, homeostasis, and energy (Excretion, Neuronal/Hormonal communication, Photosynthesis, Respiration).
• Module 6: Genetics, evolution, and ecosystems (Genomes, Cloning, Biotechnology).
Students sit three external written examinations at the end of Year 13:
1. Biological Processes (2h 15m) – 37%
2. Biological Diversity (2h 15m) – 37%
3. Unified Biology (1h 30m) – 26%
The Practical Endorsement is a non-exam assessment (reported as Pass/Fail) based on performance in 12 practical activity groups (PAGs) throughout the course.
Entry is possible from both combined and separate science courses provided a minimum of a grade 7 is achieved .
For example, a 7:6 in combined Science, or a 7 in Biology and a 6 in another Science.
Academic Enrichment: Reading academic journals (e.g., Biological Sciences Review) and non-fiction science literature.
Field Studies Council Course on Fieldwork Techniques (Biodiversity)
Competitions: Participation in the British Biology Olympiad and the Intermediate Biology Olympiad.
Leadership: Subject Captaincy and mentoring of GCSE Triple Science students.
Research: Opportunity to undertake an EPQ on complex biological topics (e.g., Gene editing or Neurobiology).
The practical scientific skills developed are vital for higher level study in the sciences at university.
The transferable skills (data analysis, evaluation, time management, organisation, group work) developed will be beneficial for future jobs, apprenticeships and higher education courses.
Leads to a wide range of biological based degree courses, such as Biology or Natural Science and Healthcare courses.
Year 13 student
I'm currently studying Biology, Chemistry and Psychology, with a plan to study midwifery at King's College London. I'm aiming to eventually become a midwife practitioner. I like the sense of independence we get at Coombe Sixth Form, and the teachers are very supportive - we get all the help we need, as the teachers make time for us both inside and outside of lessons