Course Overview
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 AQA specification is followed (GCSE Biology AQA 8461).
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
The course covers a wide range of biological topics from the cellular level through to topical environmental issues such as climate change that are relevant for today. Theoretical concepts are consolidated by practical activities. Related topics such as the scientific method and risk assessments are also covered.
Topics studied include cells, organisation, infection and response, bioenergetics (photosynthesis and respiration), homeostasis and response; Inheritance, variation and evolution; and ecology.
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.
Summative assessment is by two separate, externally marked examinations in May and June.
Paper 1
· Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes (foundation or higher tier)
· 100 marks
· 50% of GCSE
Topics include cells, organisation, infection and response and bioenergetics.
Questions: multiple choice, structured, closed short answer and open response.
Paper 2.
· 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.
Topics include homeostasis, genetics and ecology.
Course Fees
Tuition fees
Total Fees: £435.00
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.
Disclaimer
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. Pre-entry assessments will be given to gauge your suitability for the course during part-time enrolment.
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.