We follow Edexcel’s specification at A level. We study biology through real-life contexts rather than through theory alone. For example, most A-level biology courses start with cell biology or biochemistry, but we do not. We start with an account of Mark, a 15-year-old who had a stroke, and Peter, an adult who had a heart attack. We then study the biological principles needed to understand what happened to Mark and Peter and the factors that make it more likely that any of us will suffer a stroke or heart attack. We encourage an active approach to learning. You will develop a wide range of skills, including data analysis, critical evaluation, communication and collaboration. With rapid developments in Biology, we are faced with an increasing number of decisions. For example, advances in gene technology present us with ethical dilemmas. Should embryonic stem cells or human-animal hybrid cells be used in medicine? Which genes should be tested for in prenatal screening? At A level you will develop the ability to discuss and debate these issues knowledgeably. Examinations reward your ability to reason scientifically and to use what you have learned in new contexts, rather than merely recalling large amounts of information. Topic 1: Lifestyle, health and risk What is cardiovascular disease? What are the risk factors and how can they be reduced? Topic 2: Genes and health How exactly does a disease like cystic fibrosis affect the body? Topic 3: Voice of the genome How do genes control body development and how are they affected by the environment? Topic 4: Biodiversity and natural resources Why are there so many species on Earth and how might we use them? Should we use them?
At least eight GCSEs or IGCSEs graded at 7 or above for entry to our sixth form in the subjects that you are taught at school. For students currently at CLSG, each subject has a standard entry requirement of Grade 7 at GCSE or IGCSE in that subject or a related subject as specified under each subject’s entry in this booklet. You will need to have an outstanding knowledge of IGCSE (or GCSE) biology, with a minimum Grade 7. It is a demanding but enjoyable A-level and you will be expected to work hard! Do speak to your teacher or students in the year above if you would like to know more about the course.
A minimum of 10% assessment will require mathematical skills including calculation of standard deviation, selecting an appropriate statistical test and explain what it shows in terms of statistical significance and probability
About School
| Region | London |
| Local Authority | City of London |
| Ofsted Rating | |
| Gender of School | Girls |
| ISI Report | View Report |
| Boarding Fee | Unknown |
| Sixth Form Fee | £23,778 |
| Address | St Giles' Terrace, Barbican, London, EC2Y 8BB |
We follow Edexcel’s specification at A level. We study biology through real-life contexts rather than through theory alone. For example, most A-level biology courses start with cell biology or biochemistry, but we do not. We start with an account of Mark, a 15-year-old who had a stroke, and Peter, an adult who had a heart attack. We then study the biological principles needed to understand what happened to Mark and Peter and the factors that make it more likely that any of us will suffer a stroke or heart attack. We encourage an active approach to learning. You will develop a wide range of skills, including data analysis, critical evaluation, communication and collaboration. With rapid developments in Biology, we are faced with an increasing number of decisions. For example, advances in gene technology present us with ethical dilemmas. Should embryonic stem cells or human-animal hybrid cells be used in medicine? Which genes should be tested for in prenatal screening? At A level you will develop the ability to discuss and debate these issues knowledgeably. Examinations reward your ability to reason scientifically and to use what you have learned in new contexts, rather than merely recalling large amounts of information. Topic 1: Lifestyle, health and risk What is cardiovascular disease? What are the risk factors and how can they be reduced? Topic 2: Genes and health How exactly does a disease like cystic fibrosis affect the body? Topic 3: Voice of the genome How do genes control body development and how are they affected by the environment? Topic 4: Biodiversity and natural resources Why are there so many species on Earth and how might we use them? Should we use them?
At least eight GCSEs or IGCSEs graded at 7 or above for entry to our sixth form in the subjects that you are taught at school. For students currently at CLSG, each subject has a standard entry requirement of Grade 7 at GCSE or IGCSE in that subject or a related subject as specified under each subject’s entry in this booklet. You will need to have an outstanding knowledge of IGCSE (or GCSE) biology, with a minimum Grade 7. It is a demanding but enjoyable A-level and you will be expected to work hard! Do speak to your teacher or students in the year above if you would like to know more about the course.
A minimum of 10% assessment will require mathematical skills including calculation of standard deviation, selecting an appropriate statistical test and explain what it shows in terms of statistical significance and probability
