GCSE Biology (Adult Learners)
This Level 2 GCSE qualification in Biology teaches you the skills and knowledge detailed in the AQA GCSE Biology single award syllabus. You will have access to a wide range of online materials provided. Regular reading from the course textbook is encouraged to maximise your success and grade at the end of the year.
The course is fast-paced, so good attendance is required to ensure you keep up with the content and do not miss essential practical work. It is a popular course for people looking for a career change or looking to meet the requirements to have a science GCSE for further study.
The course covers the theoretical foundations of biology of and includes; Cell biology, Infection and response, Bioenergetics, Homeostasis and response, Inheritance, variation and evolution as well as Ecology. There is a strong practical theme to the course to help you understand the theory and develop your practical and data analysis skills.
Entry requirements
Students should have a reasonable grasp of Level 2 English and Maths (i.e. grade 3/4, C/D at GCSE) or be studying for a Level 2 qualification in English and Maths.
Whilst we make no formal requirement for English and Maths prospective students should note 15% of the examination involves mathematical skills and there is also a requirement for good English.
This is an adult course and students should be 19+ from the first day of the programme. Due to the demands of the course, we do not recommend this is done in addition to another full-time course, or in conjunction with the study of GCSE English and Mathematics as students find such a workload too demanding.
GCSE Biology plus ONE additional GCSE (Maths or English) is possible.
Course units
Topics covered within this course include:
- Cell biology
- Organisation
- Infection and response
- Bioenergetics
- Homeostasis and response
- Inheritance, variation, and evolution
- Ecology
All students are automatically entered for the Foundation Tier of the exam giving access to grades up to and including grade 5.
Students wishing to be entered for the higher tier grades 4-9 should discuss this with the tutor and demonstrate they are consistently able to work at a grade 5 level or higher in assessments and mock exams.
Assessments
Two written exams in May/June
- 1 hour 45 minutes long
- Multiple choice questions
- Long and short written questions
Paper 1 – 100 marks – 50% of GCSE
- Cell Biology, Organisation, Infection and Response and Bioenergetics
Paper 2 – 100 marks – 50% of GCSE
- Homeostasis and Response, Inheritance, Variation and Evolution and Ecology
There are 10 required practicals to complete throughout the year and the theory and application of these is examined within these two papers. There is no practical examination.
Course fees
£0 - £811
The fees for this course can vary depending on funding eligibility, if you feel you may qualify for funding, please contact the Funding Team.
Course progression
Many students use this qualification as a steppingstone to a Level 3 course of their choosing. A large proportion of students go on study healthcare professions such as Paramedics, Nursing and Midwifery and some go on to PGCE courses or Access to Higher Education Diploma courses, available at York College University Centre which enables them to study university degrees and higher-level qualifications.
Dates & course fees
September 2024, date tbc.
Study methods
There will be a range of work in class, including discussions, group work and individual work, with an equivalent time spent on personal study and homework, including using online resources.
Facilities
Students have access to a fantastic range of College-wide facilities such as the Learning & Research Centre, study hubs, computer areas with accompanying multi-function printers and helpdesk advice.
Additional costs
All materials are provided for you to complete the course. However, some courses may require additional study from home, you may need access to a PC/laptop and suitable Wi-Fi to access teaching and learning. You will be made aware of any additional study time at the time of enrolment.
Career progression
You will be equipped with the skills and knowledge in biology to help you progress and develop in a number of job opportunities to suit your personal needs and interests
