In Year 7, students begin by exploring cells, the fundamental building blocks of life. They develop an understanding of cell structure and function before examining how body systems work together to maintain healthy organisms. Students study the reproductive system, gaining insight into growth and development, and investigate food and digestion to understand how organisms obtain and use nutrients. The year concludes with studies of interdependence, variation and classification, introducing students to the diversity of life and the relationships between organisms and their environments. These topics establish the core knowledge that underpins all future biological learning.

In Year 8, students deepen their understanding of biological processes through the study of respiration and photosynthesis, exploring how energy is transferred and used within living organisms. They examine variation, inheritance and evolution, developing an appreciation of how species change over time and adapt to their environments. Students also investigate the role of microbes in disease and consider the impact of health and lifestyle choices on wellbeing. Throughout the year, students are encouraged to make connections between biological concepts and real-world issues affecting individuals and society.

Year 9 serves as a bridge between Key Stage 3 and GCSE Biology. Students revisit and extend their understanding of cells through studies of cell structure, transport and division. They explore organisation within living systems, including the digestive system, and develop their understanding of the classification of plants and animals. A significant focus is placed on communicable and non-communicable diseases, enabling students to explore contemporary public health challenges and scientific approaches to prevention and treatment. The curriculum develops both scientific literacy and practical investigative skills, preparing students for the demands of GCSE study.

At Key Stage 4, students build upon earlier learning through a detailed exploration of human biology, ecology, genetics and disease. In Year 10, students examine how diseases can be prevented and treated before revisiting photosynthesis and respiration at a more advanced level. They investigate the human nervous system, hormonal coordination and homeostasis, developing an understanding of how the body maintains internal balance. Students also study reproduction, variation and evolution, making important links between genetics, inheritance and natural selection.

In Year 11, students focus on some of the most significant concepts in modern biology. Topics include genetics and evolution, adaptations, ecosystems and biodiversity. Students explore how organisms interact within environments and consider the importance of conservation and sustainability. The curriculum encourages students to apply their knowledge to unfamiliar contexts, evaluate scientific evidence and prepare confidently for GCSE examinations through structured revision and retrieval practice.

Students who continue to A Level Biology undertake an academically rigorous and highly rewarding course. In Year 12, they study biological molecules, cell structure, transport systems, nucleic acids, biodiversity, ecosystems and the immune system. A strong emphasis is placed on practical work, statistical analysis and scientific investigation. In Year 13, students explore homeostasis, respiration, photosynthesis, gene expression, recombinant DNA technology, inherited change and nervous coordination. The course culminates in synoptic study, encouraging students to draw together knowledge from across the discipline and develop the independent thinking skills required for university study and careers in science, medicine and related fields.

Biology is enhanced through a rich programme of enrichment activities that bring learning to life beyond the classroom. At Key Stage 3, students can participate in STEM Club, the Flanimals Competition and activities exploring submarine development and STEM careers. GCSE students benefit from Biology clinics that provide additional academic support, alongside photography and scientific drawing competitions that encourage creativity and scientific observation. Sixth Form students have opportunities to take part in dissections, attend Biology clinics, engage with the Science in Medicine School Team Prize and access career insights through the Old Blues Career Display. These experiences support the development of practical skills, scientific curiosity and awareness of future education and career pathways.

AQA GCSE Biology (AQA 8461)

AQA A Level Biology (AQA 7402

Year 7–8

• Horrible Science series – Nick Arnold
• The Usborne Encyclopedia of the Living World – Usborne Publishing
• You Are Awesome – Matthew Syed
• Kay's Marvellous Medicine – Adam Kay

Year 9

• The Selfish Gene (Young Readers Edition) – Richard Dawkins
• Do No Harm – Henry Marsh (selected extracts)
• The Body – Bill Bryson
• Virus Hunter – Marilyn Roossinck

Years 10–11

• The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks – Rebecca Skloot
• Genome – Matt Ridley
• Why Evolution is True – Jerry Coyne
• This Is Going to Hurt – Adam Kay

Years 12–13

• The Epigenetics Revolution – Nessa Carey
• Junk DNA – Nessa Carey
• Life Ascending – Nick Lane
• The Gene – Siddhartha Mukherjee
• The Song of the Cell – Siddhartha Mukherjee
• Articles from New Scientist, Nature and Biological Sciences Review to develop wider scientific literacy and support independent research.

1. Nature Scitable

• https://www.nature.com/scitable
• Explore genetics and biotechnology articles.

2. New Scientist

• https://www.newscientist.com
• Create a weekly science news summary.

3. HHMI BioInteractive

• https://www.biointeractive.org
• Analyse real biological datasets.

4. Wellcome Collection

• https://wellcomecollection.org
• Investigate ethical issues in medicine.

5. Royal Society of Biology

• https://www.rsb.org.uk
• Participate in Biology Challenge competitions.

6. Khan Academy Biology

• https://www.khanacademy.org/science/biology
• Study university-level biological concepts.