Course Overview
GCSE Biology AQA (8461) Subject content:
This course is for adults aged 19+. Our evening GCSE Biology class is taught one evening each week for 32 weeks. Each session starts at 5.45pm and ends at 8.45pm. The course is made up of the following topics:
1. Cell biology 2. Organisation 3. Infection and response 4. Bioenergetics 5. Homeostasis and response 6. Inheritance, variation and evolution 7. Ecology 8. Key ideas (practical understanding of science).
Assessments are via two written examinations: one in May the other in early June. You will also compile throughout the course a practical record of experiments.
What You'll Learn
Year 1
Paper 1
Assesses topics 1–4: cell biology; organisation; infection and response; and bioenergetics. The paper content is as follows:
· Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes (foundation or higher tier)
· 100 marks
· 50% of GCSE
Questions: multiple choice, structured, closed short answer and open response.
Paper 2.
Assesses topics 5–7: homeostasis and response; inheritance; variation; evolution; and ecology. Paper contents:
· Written exam: one hour 45 minutes (foundation or higher tier).
· 100 marks
· 50% of GCSE
Questions: multiple choice, structured, closed short answer and open response.
Entry Requirements
All applicants should be 19+ with a good level of written English. Pre-entry assessments will be given to gauge your suitability for the course during your interview during part-time enrolment.
How you will be assessed
You will be assessed throughout the course to enable your tutor to set and review learning targets and will undertake a controlled assessment task which counts towards your final grade.
Summative assessment is by two separate, externally marked examinations in June.
Course Fees
Tuition fees
Tuition Fees (19+): £495.00
Additional Costs
It is recommended you buy a course textbook and revision book, details of which will be given in the first taught session. There may be a materials fee to cover some of the costs of practical sessions.
Material Fees
£10.00
Disclaimer
If the course is longer than one year the total fees are for the first year only and further fees may apply in future years. All fees are based on a ‘home’ learner status. Please contact us for information on overseas fees.
For more information, please see our course fee disclaimers page.
Course and Career progression
Following successful completion of this course, it may be possible to to study a more advanced science course, such as Access to Health Professions or Access to Science diplomas (for suitably qualified candidates). This course can fulfill the PGCE or other university requirements for a level 2 science qualification.
In some cases, employers in health-related industries require science qualifications, such as GCSE biology.
What Happens Next
Apply online via the College website. You will be contacted to attend an interview if required, or you will be sent a conditional offer according to the entry requirements for the course. You will then be invited in to enrol for your chosen course of study.
For enrol and pay courses: Once you have decided to take the course, you need to fill in a short learner details form online and pay the course fee. Once you have done this, you will receive an electronic confirmation of enrolment and payment.