Biology

Staff

Mr Neal A Nowotarski

Dr Carrie Mills

Mrs Claire Woodside

Mrs Stephanie Squance

Mrs Laura McVeigh

Mr George King (Technician)

Subject Overview

In the Biology Department the aim is to enable pupils to:

• Learn effectively and to develop a genuine interest in Biology.
• Work safely to carry out fair scientific investigations and present their findings in appropriate ways.
• Interpret and evaluate scientific information.
• Work effectively with others.
• Be able research topics thoroughly and identify relevant information.
• Understand the diversity of living things on Earth.
• Develop an understanding of how their bodies work.
• Develop an understanding of how humans affect the environment.
• Be aware of the various sources of scientific media and to evaluate articles for value and credibility.
• Develop skills that enable them to pursue Biology-related courses or careers.

Accommodation

The Biology Department occupies four laboratories. There is also a preparatory room, greenhouse and science garden.

Achievements

Pupils recognise the Biology Department as a successful Department and they are voting with their feet. Outside of the compulsory subjects, Biology is one of the largest department in the School. Students appear to view the subject as a good strategic option that gives them the opportunity to pursue a variety of courses and career options in the future. In 2024, 30% of students studying A-Level achieved grades A*-A; 65% of AS level pupils achieved A*-B and at GCSE 94% achieved grades A*- C.

Key Stage 3

In Year 8 pupils learn about the scientific method and complete units on the living world and the human body.

Year 9 and 10 pupils have two periods of Biology per fortnight and they complete the following units:

• Plant Reproduction
• Reproduction and Survival
• Cells and Genes
• Microbes Disease and Immunity
• Diet, Digestion and Enzymes
• Circulatory System / Heart Start
• Ecosystem

 CCEA Specification

Key Stage 4

Pupils follow the GCSE CEA Biology Specification. There are five periods each lasting one hour, per fortnight.

CCEA Specification

Key Stage 5

Pupils follow AS and A2 CEA Biology Specifications. In Year 13 pupils have 10 hours of Biology per fortnight and In Year 14 they have 9 hours.

CCEA Specification

Career Opportunities

There are a large number of Biology-related career options. Students have had opportunities to go on to follow careers in:

Biomedical Science, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Botany, Clinical Physiology, Conservation, Dentistry, Dietetics, Ecology, Environmental Health, Environmental Consultancy, Farming, Forensic Science, Food Industry, Forestry Science, Genetics, Marine Biology, Medicine, Molecular Biology, Nursing, Occupational therapy, Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sales, Podiatry, Psychology, Physiotherapy, Radiology, Scientific Research, Teaching, Veterinary, Zoology.