Biology
Biology is the study of life itself and with recent pioneering developments in genetics, stem cell research and biotechnology, it is an exciting time to study this dynamic science.
The advancement of scientific technologies has also demonstrated how interconnected all organisms are, the importance of biodiversity and the care we need to give our ecosystems in order to protect our world for future generations. To understand this interconnectedness we study a huge variety of really interesting topics such as physiology, organic molecules and ecology. This knowledge base is essential for careers in sustainability, healthcare and scientific research
Throughout all years, investigative and practical work is key, with every lesson taking place in specialised laboratories; we pride ourselves on excellent high quality practical work. The department has access to a field studies classroom which is adjacent to a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) woodland.
After the general science course taught in Year 7, Biology is taught by subject specialists through to the Sixth Form.
The standard Key Stage 3 criteria is not appropriate for our academic students, so the Department has created a more challenging enquiry based scheme of work for our Year 8 students; this also suits the learning styles of our students making sure they are active and learn by doing with investigative skills and practical work being core to every lesson. The Department selects topics that the students have a keen interest in and that will help them in the future such as microbiology, biodiversity and human physiology.
GCSE commences in Year 9 following the Edexcel International GCSE, with practical work remaining an important part, building on the theory as they go through Years 10 and 11. All Year 10 pupils take part in the Biology Challenge competition, in which most boys usually gain an award from Gold to Bronze.
Future careers
The field of Biology offers an abundance of exciting career paths with endless possibilities. In the healthcare sector, one can explore diverse options such as physiotherapy, medical research, optometry, biomedical science, medicine, dentistry, pathology, neuroscience, genetics analysis, and prosthetics, among others.
For those with a passion for the natural world, Biology also presents various specialisations like Marine Biology, Ecology, Microbiology, Virology, and Zoology, where students can make significant contributions to understanding and preserving our planet’s biodiversity.
Beyond traditional biological careers, studying Biology equips students with analytical skills that have far-reaching applications. These skills open doors to fields like law, accountancy, teaching, advertising, and more.
Beyond the classroom
Meet the Head of Department
Ms Ferguson
Ms Ferguson is a dedicated educator with a passion for Biology. Her diverse career and academic studies (MSc Distinction Hydrogeology, BSc 1st Hons Biology with French) have given her a thorough understanding of biology both in the classroom and in the field.
She is a highly experienced teacher having held positions as Head of Lower School Science, Head of Careers and the most recent progression to Head of Biology. She believes in inquiry-based learning and loves to incorporate practical work into her lessons to engage and inspire the students. She has positive aspirations for the future, aiming to create students that respect the biodiversity of the world.
