Biology Department

Biology Department - Foyle College
“
An understanding of the natural world is a source of not only great curiosity, but great fulfilment
” — Sir David Attenborough

Welcome to the Biology Department

In Key Stage 3, Biology is part of an integrated Science programme which covers the CCEA Revised Curriculum. In Years 8 and 9, it is studied along with the other two Science subjects. All pupils in Year 10 are taught Biology as a separate Science subject.

The Biology curriculum at KS3 ensures that pupils have a wide and balanced knowledge of the study of life, and provides them with a foundation for the GCSE Biology course.

Key Stage 3: Areas of Study Include

  • Structure & Function of Organisms
  • Respiration & Breathing
  • Reproduction
  • Digestion
  • Genetics & Environment
  • Non-communicable Diseases
  • Scientific Investigation
  • Cross-Curricular Skills

GCSE

Pupils have the opportunity to follow the CCEA course in GCSE Biology or Double Award Science. Both provide a broad, coherent and practical course that enables pupils to develop a positive view of and confidence in Biology.

Course Content

Knowledge

Biological Concepts

  • • Understanding biological concepts and the effects of Biology on society.
  • • Exploring relationships between biological advances, ethical implications, benefits, and risks.

Practical Skills

Application

Scientific Enquiry

  • • Development of skills in planning, handling apparatus, analysing data and drawing conclusions.
  • • Applying observational, modelling, and problem-solving skills in laboratory and field environments.

A-Level

The department follows the CCEA GCE Biology specification at A Level. This qualification gives pupils a deeper knowledge and understanding of living organisms and their life processes.

Foundation & Systems

AS Level
  • Organism Structure: Learning how organisms are built, function, and interact with each other.
  • Interaction: Understanding the complex relationships between organisms and their surroundings.

Modern Developments

A2 Level
  • Advanced Topics: Opportunity to explore areas such as epigenetics and gene technology.
  • Disease & Health: Investigating how disrupted cell cycles contribute to the development of cancer.

Where to Next?

An A level in Biology can lead to a wide variety of careers. Past pupils have gone on to study Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and many other professions concerned with the care of the sick.

Potential Career Paths

Medicine Dentistry Veterinary Science Marine Biology Pharmacy Physiotherapy Zoology Speech Therapy

Skills Development

  • Competence & Confidence: Pupils develop skills in analysis, independent learning, research, and creative thinking.
  • Transferable Skills: Mathematics, problem-solving, microscopy, and handling apparatus are key components of the course.
  • Future Ready: Pupils are fully prepared for further study in Biology, a wide range of other disciplines, and the world of work.