Course Overview
Studying Biology at A-Level will give you the skills and knowledge to tackle the major issues facing our world; preserving our natural environments, finding cures for fatal diseases, tackling the problem of antibiotic resistance, addressing the obesity epidemic and developing alternative forms of fuel.
This A-Level is awarded by AQA.
The staff teaching the course have an array of experiences, both within education and in their own fields of expertise. Collectively, they have over twenty years' experience in both teaching and assessing A-Level Biology, and in supporting and encouraging students in their future career plans. Together they are able to give students an insight into the skills and knowledge required by both laboratory based and field based scientists, having previously had successful careers in these fields.
In your first year your studies will allow you to build on your knowledge and understanding from GCSE including the study of; cells, cell transport, molecules and of the circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems. You will also study the details of cell division, the genetic code and causes of variation between organisms. During your second year you will study the biochemistry of respiration and photosynthesis, DNA technology and genetic inheritance, Ecology, and nervous and hormonal coordination of responses. With each topic we will explore links to current research such as the effects of various medicinal drugs on the nervous system and the exciting developing fields of gene editing and epigenetics.
Most taught sessions occur within the fully equipped Science Lab, with access to computers and all practical equipment and resources necessary. There is no coursework but you will complete practical investigations to develop your observational skills and analytical techniques. You will need to be curious, driven and organised to succeed. Maths makes up a small but significant part of the course; lessons will focus on ratios, percentages and statistical testing. You tutors will assess your progress regularly through tests and homework activities designed to help you develop your exam technique.
There are various opportunities for field work over two year period including field trips into the Lake District National Park to conduct sampling and visits to the laboratories at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary.
Entry Requirements
5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above, which must include English Language and Maths, and Biology at grade 6. Combined Science at grade 7 may be considered.
Adult Learners:
Our A-Level courses are designed to be part of our sixth form, 'KC Sixth', and studied full-time (3-4 subjects). They have 3 classes on different days across each week & are run over two academic years with a tutorial provision alongside them. If you want to study A-Levels part-time (1-2 subjects), please email hello@kendal.ac.uk, and Student Services will contact you to discuss this further. Alternatively, we offer a fast-track route to Higher Education via our Access to HE courses, which are specifically designed for adult students.
After Your Course
Studying Biology will provide you with an excellent opportunity to develop skills that will transfer to a wide range of careers or further study:
Biochemistry, Biomedical Science, Biology, Botany, Conservation, Dentistry, Ecology , Environmental Science, Genetics, Marine Biology, Medicine, Microbiology, Neuroscience, Nursing, Optometry, Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Psychology, Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Radiology, Sports Science, Toxicology, Veterinary Science and Zoology.
Fees
£2225.00
The fee displayed is the course fee. Course fees are per year for full-time courses and per course for part-time courses.
Other costs may be associated with this course, e.g., kit, equipment, books, trips, etc. Financial support may be available to support you with these. See the Student Money pages for more information.
Courses fees
The current full-time & degree-level fee information is related to the 2024/25 academic year.
Level 3-6 Courses
Advanced Learning Loans are available for students aged 19 or over and studying eligible level 3, 4, 5 & 6 courses. If you are on an Access course, the loan will be written off if you complete a degree.
You may qualify for financial support to cover the cost of a Level 3 qualification if you do not already have a Level 3 qualification (this will depend on the course & your age on 31/08/24).
Please speak to Student Services for more information on course fees.
A-Levels
The fees displayed are for the one-year AS-Level course. If you would like to progress onto the full A-Level, please get in touch with us for the cost of the second year, as it will be different.
16-18 year olds
There are no course fees if you were aged 16-18 on 31/08/24 and are not studying at another institution.
