GCSE Biology

View The Isle of Wight College's standard entry requirements for full-time college courses (depending on the level of the course to be studied).

This is an intensive GCSE programme, and entrants are therefore required to have already achieved GCSE Science at grade 3 (D). It is possible to make exceptions, at the discretion of the course leader, and all applicants need to complete an entry assessment to a satisfactory standard and to attend an information session before you can be offered a place on this course.

This one year ‘Fast Track’ course is suitable for those who require a GCSE in Biology (Science) at grade 4 (C) or above to progress to further study on College programmes such as ‘ACCESS to Higher Education’ (includes a Human Physiology unit), or for those who plan to study at degree level (healthcare, science, education), since the great majority of universities now expect applicants to have a good GCSE in this subject.

Subject content -Cell biology -Organisation -Infection and response -Bioenergetics -Homeostasis and response

You can study the GCSE Biology as part of a full-time study programme, or as a part-time course for 3 hours a week (Fast track adult course only). You also need to be able to commit to doing between 4 and 6 hours of self-study per week. You will be encouraged to learn independently as well as in groups, using a range of tools such as computers, textbooks and videos. Your overall grade will be based on: TOPICS 1-4 Cell biology; Organisation; Infection and response; and Bioenergetics – External examination (1 hour 45 minutes) – Paper 1 (50% of GCSE). TOPICS 5-7 Homeostasis and response; Inheritance, variation and evolution; and Ecology – External examination (1 hour 45 minutes) – Paper 2 (50% of GCSE). For the award of the GCSE in Biology students must complete both assessments.

A grade 4 or above in GCSE Biology (or science) is a requirement for many level 3 courses, and some diplomas in ACCESS to Higher Education. It is also part of the entry criteria for many university courses, including those leading to a career in the medical sector. It would also be beneficial for most healthcare career paths where a degree is not specifically required.