A-Level Programme - Biology

What will I study?

• Biological molecules

• Cells exchange and transport and biodiversity

• Energy transfers in and between organisms

• How organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environment

• Genetics

• Populations and evolution systems and control of gene expression

You will need:

• 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English and maths and, for this specific subject;

• GCSE grade 6 or above in biology (6-5 in combined science)
• GCSE grade 6 or above in maths (5 if foundation taken)

How long is this course?

2 years

When does this course start?

02/09/2026

How many hours / days per week is this course?

Full-time courses at CWA are generally 3 - 4 days per week (though you may be in for an extra day if you are resitting English and / or Maths). The college day is typically longer than a day at school and students will need to plan their individual study in their free time (including individual study hours which are recorded at college in the Learning Resource Centre or other study areas). Work experience will be a key component of your course and most students will complete a minimum of 60 hours per academic year (on top of their college hours), depending on the course they are studying. CWA has a dedicated team of work placement co-ordinators to support you with this.

* Some of our courses may have additional costs to cover trips, unform and equipment. These costs will be confirmed to you at enrolment.

Fee information

Though this course is free for those aged 16-18, there may be additional costs related to the programme, such as additional equipment and uniform, educational trips and work placement costs. Full details will be sent to applicants before enrolment.

Find all the information you need about course fees and financial help below.

Information on Fees and Financial Help

What qualification will I achieve?

AQA A-Level in Biology

How is my course assessed?

The course is taught in theory and practical sessions for 4.5 hours per week.

Students are expected to complete independent study tasks outside of the lessons on a weekly basis. Various teaching methods are used throughout the course. Practical laboratory sessions are particularly important and the development of investigative skills is fostered.

The written examination includes questions on experimental work and handling of data from experiments. All exams are taken at the end of the second year of study.

Exam information

Paper 1 lasts 2 hours, 35% of the marks. Short and long response written questions with one extended response question. Paper 2 lasts 2 hours, 35% of the marks. Short and long response written questions with one comprehension question. Paper 3 lasts 2 hours, 30% of the marks. Structured questions including practical techniques, critical analysis of experimental data and one essay question.