Key Stage 3	GCSE	Pre IB	A Level	IB Diploma

Biology 

Head of Biology: Mr Frank Sochacki MSB

 

One of the main reasons why people study Biology is for personal enrichment and pleasure. Many students enjoy the subject matter - they find it naturally interesting and stimulating - particularly when they can apply their learing to the real and natural world around them. There are many close links to other subjects including Art, Technology, Geography, Psychology, Maths and Chemistry.

Biology at KC

           

All teaching takes place in four superbly equipped laboratories or out in the school grounds. We have two junior labs and two used specifically for senior classes. These labs are equipped with interactive white boards, internet access and all the apparatus needed to create a pleasant yet purposeful learning environment. This enables lessons to be fully interactive with a positive, enquiring approach in which the pupils have the opportunity to develop their own ideas and learn in their own learning style.

Practical Work and the Farm

          

Our well equipped labs and excellent technical assistance enable a very practical approach to our teaching. Practical work plays a large part in the learning as pupils investigate the scientific questions that arise through discussion. Weather permitting we make full use of the opportunities for investigative work and ecological studies on the school farm. Our links to the farm continue to strengthen and have given us the opportunity to offer Environmental and Land Based Science at GCSE. This very practical subject involves teaching on the farm all year round.

         

Courses offered 

OCR Gateway Science, Biology GCSE

OCR Environmental and Land Based Science GCSE

OCR AS / A level Biology

Biology as part of the International Baccalaureate at Standard level and Higher level.

Clubs and Activities

We run a Biology Clinic most lunchtimes during term. Our students can come to ask for individual help or can pursue individual investigations.

Science Club and Junior Science Club. An opportunity to explore individual interests and to coordinate entries to national competitions such as the BA Crest Awards and the Bill Bryson Writing Competition.

Practical Conservation. Learning practical conservation techniques in areas of the school farm and local Blean Woods.  We have close ties with the RSPB who own and manage a large part of this ancient woodland.

What can you do with Biology?

There is a long list of potential courses of study and careers which include:

Dentistry, veterinary science and medicine

Marine biology, food technology, ecological impact assessment or forensics

Nursing, research or nature reserve warden

“ Biology is fun because you get to do dissections and do lots of practical work ”
Jessica Smith Y13

“ The teachers are clearly passionate about their subject ”
Anna McGibney Y13