School has a history of outstanding achievement at GCSE and Advanced levels.

We engender a positive ‘can do’ ethos enabling our students to develop self-esteem, confidence and an understanding of the natural world that will prepare them for life in the modern world. The department’s enthusiastic staff encourages students to enjoy and appreciate Biology, develop their understanding and become independent and reflective learners.

The five members of the teaching staff are thoroughly supported by experienced laboratory technicians who service our modern well-equipped laboratories.

In Years 7&8 Biology is taught as part of a broad science curriculum, and then in Year 9 it is taught separately in preparation for the SATs at the end of Key Stage 3.

At Key Stage 4 we study the AQA specification. This includes such diverse topics as digestion, genetics, health and the environment, which experience has shown us our pupils thoroughly enjoy. Our results over the past few years can be seen via the exam results link at the bottom of the page. This course is excellent preparation for study of Biology at advanced level and over half of our students carry on with Biology beyond GCSE..

In the sixth form we follow the AQA specification. In the AS year the fundamentals of Biology, such as heath and disease, transport systems, cellular structure and DNA are studied in depth. There is a practical skills assessment at the end of the course. The majority of students who study AS stay on to study Biology to A2 level where they successfully study topics such as the sliding filament theory of muscle contraction, homeostasis an d inheritance. The breadth and depth of the course is excellent preparation for study of the biological courses beyond A level and develops skills that will be of benefit in many other subjects and vocations as well.

Each year we send students to study related degrees at a range of universities. Many of our students study medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and natural sciences.

Biology is also accepted for a wide range of other degrees.

As a department we spend a significant amount of time experimenting with new, diverse and positive methods of enhancing and maximising the learning experience for all our pupils; the range of interests and expertise within the department also provides students with a range of stimulating experiences and contributes towards the interest and success in the department. Mind mapping is often used, ICT is used when appropriate and students are given opportunities to learn through a variety of practical work.

“Although Biology is hard work and there is a lot to learn, it’s very satisfying when it all clicks into place and you can see how everything fits together.” Maria Lee (Year 13 2008)

“Biology complements many other science subjects in that they’re very closely related, and it builds a great foundation upon a deeper understanding into the functions of human anatomy. For any budding doctors-to-be I would strongly recommend you pursue Biology at A level, for it is a truly fascinating and rewarding science.” Jiaqi Shi (Year 13 2008)

The Biology department is proud of the achievements of its students and is always looking for ways in which we can improve the challenge and support that we offer.

 

The Biology department at King Edward VI Camp Hill Girls’ School has a history of outstanding achievement at GCSE and Advanced levels.

A2 results
	A	B	C	D	E	U
2008	31	19	7	2	0	1
2007	33	21	10	2	1	1
2006	34	15	6	2	2	0
AS results
	A	B	C	D	E	U
2008	30	17	19	5	6	4
2007	33	18	9	3	2	8
2006	35	22	9	5	2	0
GCSE results
	A*	A	B	C	D
2008	60	43	14	1	0
2007	53	28	13	2	0
2006	49	23	16	3	0

 

For additional information relating to the topics taught in each year and useful websites, please click here