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Exeter College

Hele Road, Exeter. EX4 4JS.
Tel: 0845 111 6000.

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Biology
Level: Level 3 - AS/A2      Full-time 
How long is the course/training? AS: one-year A2: one-year

What will I be doing on the course/training?

AS and A2 Levels Biology encourage you to develop essential knowledge and understanding of concepts of Biology and the skills needed for the use of these in new and changing situations.

You will develop an understanding of scientific method and be aware of those scientific advances in technology that are relevant to the Biological Sciences. You will appreciate the value of and the responsible use of Biology in society.

In addition, at A2 Level you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of facts, principles and concepts from different areas of Biology and learn to make and use connection between them.

AS Biology

  • Unit 1 Biology and disease
  • Unit 2 The variety of living organisms
  • Unit 3 Investigative and practical skills in AS Biology
Course/Training Code: To be confirmed

Where do I study/train?

Hele Road

What are the entry requirements?

You need at least five GCSE C grades with English Language and maths at B or above, including GCSE core and GCSE additional science at grade BB, or single sciences (biology, chemistry, physics, human physiology and health) at grade 2 x B's. A grade D or above is needed at AS level for progression to A2.

What can I do after this course/training?

You could go on to Higher Education or a career in Pharmacy, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry and related subjects. A scientific training is also widely recognised as a valid preparation for ultimate careers in a whole range of occupations from management to marketing. AS Level offers a qualification between GCSE and A Level. Both AS Levels and A Levels offer you the opportunity to gain points for entry into Higher Education.

What Functional skills will I do?

If you are taking a 3-AS level programme you will do a key skill to support your study. If you are taking 4 or more AS subjects we will discuss Functional Skills at your interview.

What residential/work experience is there?

None Specified

What faculty is the course/training in?

Maths and Science

How to Apply?

Get an application form through school, Connexions or by contacting the college. For more information refer to the 'How to Apply' page.

How do I study the course/training and how will I be assessed?

You will be taught through lectures, group work, practical work, assignment and projects. Videos, IT equipment and visits are used as teaching aids and you will have access to fully equipped laboratories and also IT equipment. Various ongoing assessments are made by tests, essay writing and other exercises which do not contribute to the final exam. ExaminationsAS LevelUnit 1 Biology and disease 1hr 15 min written paper 33.3% AS markUnit 2 The Variety of living organisms 1 hr 45 min written paper 46.7% AS markUnit 3 Investigative and practical skills in AS Biology Range of practical assessments 20% AS markA2 LevelUnit 4 Populations and environment 1hr 30 min written paper 16.7% total A levelUnit 5 Control in cells and in organisms 2hr 15 min written paper 23.3% total A levelUnit 6 Investigative and practical skills in A2 BiologyRange of practical assessments 10% total A level

What facilities are there?

You will have access to a learning resource centre. There is a refectory based in the Hele Building.

What will the course/training cost me?

This further education course is free for all 16-18 year olds who are resident in the UK and the European Economic Area for the last 3 years. (You must be under 19 on 31st August in the calendar year that you start your course).

Additional costs:

Lab coat needed (approx £8.00), Scientific calculator (approx £10.00), field work costs depend on individual choice. Some text books are provided but you may want to buy an up-to-date one, in which case the cost varies between £15.00-£30.00. It may be possible to purchase books from ex-students.

Previous students' views:

Coming soon...
To find out more:
Telephone: 0845 111 6000
Email: science@exe-coll.ac.uk
College Prospectus