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A Level Biology in Manchester for 16 to 18 Year Olds

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration9 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAQA awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? Check which courses you can do free.

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About this course

Free Level 3 GCE A Level in Biology classes in Manchester. Classes run at Stretford Grammar School, full-time during the day over 9 months. The AQA Level 3 GCE A Level in Biology qualification covers genetics, health, biological systems, and the latest advances in biological science. You'll need a GCSE grade 6 in Biology (or a grade 7 if combining with other sciences), plus an Attainment 8 score of at least 60 from your best 8 GCSEs. The course is a recognised step toward university study in biological sciences, medicine, and related fields.

Who this course is for

SPECIFICATION A Level AQA Biology spec ref: 7402 OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE A-level Biology is a steppingstone to future study, the course content will inspire students to nurture a passion for Biology and lay the groundwork for further study in courses like biological sciences and medicine. The latest advances in areas such as genetics and health are referred to constantly in order to reflect the rapid expansion of biological knowledge and its applications in a modern society. Students will develop synoptic links and be able to apply a range of biological concepts in order to explain information and data presented to them in novel situations. Biology is fundamentally an experimental subject. This specification provides numerous opportunities to use practical experiences to link theory to reality and will equip students with the essential practical skills they need for future scientific study.

METHODS OF STUDY A variety of teaching methods are employed such as group and individual work, class discussion, class presentations and practical work. Students are expected to complete a significant amount of independent study and are provided with a handbook at the start of the course which outlines the extent of work needed for success. In addition, educational visits to places of interest are planned to extend knowledge beyond the classroom, including fieldwork, lectures and visits.

SPECIAL FEATURES OF THE COURSE Students have the opportunity to deliver Science practical activities to primary school pupils, deliver Crest Award project activities to KS3 students and support Biology students in lower year groups.

More able students are provided with the opportunity to enter the Biology Olympiad competition.

Entry requirements

Attainment 8 score of 60 (calculated from the best 8 GCSEs), including Maths & English Language to at least grade 5. Students must attain grade 6 in the subjects they will study. Where subjects haven't been studied at GCSE (e.g. Psychology, Economics etc.) then grade 6s in English and or Maths is expected. Students must attain grade 6 in Maths to study Sciences. Where students take more than one of Chemistry, Physics, Maths & Biology we recommend grade 7s in these subjects.

What you will learn

  • You'll study cell biology, including cell structure, transport, and division.
  • You'll explore genetics, inheritance, and how DNA controls biological processes.
  • You'll examine human physiology, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous systems.
  • You'll investigate ecosystems, biodiversity, and the impact of human activity on the natural world.
  • You'll analyse the latest developments in genetics, biotechnology, and disease.
  • You'll develop practical laboratory skills through hands-on experimental work.
  • You'll practise evaluating biological data and constructing evidence-based arguments.

How you will learn

You'll be assessed through written examinations at the end of the course. AQA Biology A Level includes three written papers covering different areas of the specification. Practical skills are assessed through a separate endorsement, based on work carried out during the course. Classes are delivered in a classroom setting during the day.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Stretford Grammar School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Laboratory technician: supports scientific research and testing in labs.
  • Healthcare science assistant: works in NHS or private diagnostic settings.
  • Pharmacy assistant: supports dispensing and patient advice in pharmacies.
  • Research assistant: assists with biological or medical research projects.
  • Environmental monitoring officer: collects and analyses ecological data.
  • Science technician: prepares equipment and materials in educational or industrial settings.

What you could study next

  • Undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences: the natural next step after the gce a level in biology qualification, opening routes into research, medicine, and industry.
  • Undergraduate degree in Medicine or Dentistry: requires strong A Level science results including Biology.
  • Undergraduate degree in Nursing or Midwifery: many programmes list A Level Biology as a preferred or required subject.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Applied Biology: a work-focused alternative to a full degree.
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