Norbury Manor Girls' High School

The KS5 Biology curriculum is delivered using a variety of teaching styles in order to engage, exhilarate and excite students of all abilities and learning styles.

We follow the AQA AS and A2 syllabus. This course was chosen as we feel it provides the best grounding for continuing the study of Biology from GCSE through to Higher Education. The course has a distinct focus on the practical applications of theory covered within the syllabus. This practical emphasis features heavily within the assessment for the two years.

The course is assessed by two examinations and a coursework exam which is based on an assessed practical for each year of study. To ensure the pupils are ready for these exams there are regular end of chapter assessments in addition to mock examinations and coursework.

We believe it is essential that pupils know where their A-level in Biology can take them in life. To fulfil this we invite several guest speakers including a trainee Paediatrician and a Biogas Engineer.

Throughout the year we take a selection of students to evening lectures at universities. We feel this facilitates a greater understanding of the style and rigour of higher education within the scientific field enabling them to decide early on the career path which is right for them.

This year we are planning to introduce extra lessons for G&T students in order to prepare them for the British Biology Olympiad, this is a widely celebrated competition which can lead to a recognised certificate, truly an advantage for any pupil looking into competitive fields such as medicine.

1. Biology and disease
2. The variety of living organisms
3. Externally assessed coursework

4. Population and environment.
5. Control in cells and in organisms.  
6. Externally assessed coursework.

• Take part in a fieldtrip as part of the A2 course.
• Support the Science dept at Prospective Parents’ Evening.

• Double Award Science : Minimum B (in additional science)
• Triple Science – B in Biology
• Plus GCSE Maths at grade A* - B and English Language at grade A* - B