Biology is a dynamic and exciting subject very much in the forefront of many new developments in science in the 21st century.

The new Biology suite in the Callard Laboratories comprises four teaching rooms, prep room, greenhouse, animal room and office with the use of an IT room in the same block.

In Years 9, 10 and 11 pupils follow a programme of lessons that leads either to the AQA separate science GCSE Biology or the AQA combined science GCSE.

At this stage we are looking for our pupils to understand scientific ideas; how they develop, understand factors which may affect development, their power and limitations and evaluate and consider ethical issues. The topics covered are very diverse, from DNA, genetics and genetic engineering to the causes behind and possible cures for communicable and non-communicable diseases in humans.

The course takes the topics covered in years 7 and 8 and explains the issues in more depth as well as introducing new concepts. Students who do well on the separate science GCSE course will be in a strong position to cope with the challenges of the Biology A Level.

Pupils are also encouraged to take part in the Biology challenge, a countrywide competition which acts as a junior British Biology Olympiad, which aims to encourage an interest in biology beyond the school curriculum and stimulate curiosity in the natural world.

Core topics covered by Separate Science and Trilogy Science:

• Cell biology
• Organisation
• Infection and response
• Bioenergetics
• Homeostasis and response
• Inheritance, variation and evolution
• Ecology
• Microbiology

Additional topics unique to Separate Science Biology:

• Monoclonal antibodies
• The Brain and the eye
• DNA
• How the body controls temperature, water and nitrogen
• Disease and hormones in plants
• Cloning
• Evolution and Speciation
• Impact of environmental change
• Food security and sustainability
• Biotechnology