The Biology Department
GCSE Course >
AS & A2 Course >
Biology is not only the window into the fascinating world of living things; it is also the door to a lifelong interest in subjects which are vital to solve the problems spawned by the 20th century.
Head of Department, R R Akam



GCSE Course
Aims
Biology is a subject of immense interest to most boys and girls. Wide ranging in its scope, the subject encourages Stoics to ask questions about themselves and the world in which they live. Amongst the main aims of the course is the hope that each Stoic will develop a concerned and informed awareness of relationships between living organisms, of relationships between organisms and their environment and the effect of human activities on these relationships. Above all the aim is to promote a respect for all forms of life. The course provides a worthwhile educational experience for all and is a suitable preparation for careers which require a knowledge of Biology.

Stoics are expected to take Higher tier papers (A* - D).

Careers
Many higher education courses require a qualification at Key Stage 4 in Science - and Biology satisfies this requirement if grade C or better is obtained.

Teaching
This single subject course (Triple Science) is taught in 4 x 40 minutes weekly. It must be studied with single subject Physics and Chemistry, leading to three full science GCSEs.

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AS & A2 Course
Advances in Biological Research have influenced both the content of and opportunities provided by modern A Level Biology courses. Biology is no longer a subject founded purely on the ability to recall vast quantities of factual material. These advances have made Biology an interesting and valuable subject to study to A Level. The practical approach to the subject is both stimulating and rewarding and reflects the modern trends in Biological Sciences.
The facilities provided by the Science Department are amongst the best in the country and the grounds of Stowe provide an unparalleled resource for the study of biological ecosystems. Extensive use is made of modern equipment, much of it linked to computer technology. You will study in a caring atmosphere in which individual skills are nurtured.
During the AS and A2 courses, visits to local Universities, Industries and Research Establishments are arranged and there is an active Science Society which is addressed by eminent Scientists from a variety of outside organisations.
A2 students in Biology will attend a five day field course, usually at a coastal university such as Bangor. A third of the cost of this course is borne by the School but parents are expected to contribute the remaining two-thirds (£150).
The Department undertakes regular biological expeditions, e.g. South Africa in 2005 and Honduras in 2006.

Subject combinations
It is possible to combine a number of subjects with Biology though best results are achieved when another science, or mathematics, is also studied. The column system Stowe offers allows a wide variety of subject combinations which include Biology.

Careers
It is recognised that the choice of a suitable career is of vital importance to all students. The Department, through its Tutors, offers specialist advice should you wish to pursue a career with a biological content. In recent years many students have gained entry to medical schools and several have studied Biological Sciences at Oxford.
In addition to the well established careers in Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry, Physiology, Ecology, Pharmacology, Immunology and Biochemistry new career opportunities have arisen in the fields of Environmental Science, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology. Universities offering degree courses in these subjects frequently state that a study of A Level Biology is advantageous and in some cases essential.

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