A-Level Biology

You will need 5 GCSE's at grades 5-9, including grade 6 in Maths, Science at grade 6, or Biology and another science at grade 6.

The course is graded A*-E and each grade is worth the following UCAS points:

- Grade A = 56 UCAS points
- Grade B = 48 UCAS points
- Grade C = 32 UCAS points
- Grade D = 24 UCAS points
- Grade A = 12 UCAS points

On this course you will learn through a combination of lectures, demonstrations, workshops, practical sessions, discussion activities and external visits.

Independent learning skills will be developed through research activities and extended study tasks.

You will develop your practical skills and carry out independent research linked to laboratory work. You will complete twelve assessed practical sessions throughout your two years of study which will contribute to your practical endorsement.

You will be assessed by 3 exams at the end of year 2, which are set by the exam board, OCR. Your progress will also be monitored internally with in-class assessments, homework tasks and practice exams.

GCSE Maths and English are vital stepping stones for your academic and professional journey. Achieving a good grade in these subjects not only fulfils most college entry requirements but also equips you with essential skills critical in almost every field. Whether you're calculating percentages in business, crafting compelling arguments, or simply managing daily tasks, these core subjects enhance your problem-solving and communication abilities, setting a solid foundation for your future studies and career success. Start your college course with confidence by securing these key qualifications before you enrol.

At Northumberland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:

• Placement Opportunities: Dive into your future career with our hands-on placement opportunities. These are not just work experiences, but gateways to potential employment and invaluable learning. They’re a core part of our courses, offering you a chance to apply academic theories in real-world scenarios.
• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.

Our A Level programmes allow you to choose multiple subjects, enabling you to study 3 A Levels over two years or combine them with equivalent vocational qualifications, with each subject taught for 4 hours and 30 minutes per week across three separate lessons and your timetable determined by your chosen subjects (provided at the start of the academic year).
Although you are not required to be on campus when you do not have a timetabled lesson, we strongly recommend making effective use of our learning facilities and resources during these periods to stay on top of your work.

In year 12 you will study:

- Biological Molecules
- Cells
- Organisms and Exchange
- Genetics
- Variation and Relationships

In year 13 you will study:

- Energy Transfers
- Responses to Change
- Genetics
- Populations
- Evolution and Ecosystems
- Control of Gene Expression