Biology is taught to Year 7 and 9 pupils as part of the General Science Curriculum. Girls acquire a broad range of Scientific skills through experimental work, and cover fundamental topics such as Reproduction, Genetics and Structure and the Function of Human Body Systems.
At St George’s, all pupils study Biology, Chemistry and Physics at GCSE either in preparation for a Combined Science examination, gaining two GCSEs across the three disciplines, or with a view to taking GCSE examinations in the three disciplines separately.
In Year 9, girls start the GCSE course and will cover topics as diverse as Disease, Cellular Biology and Evolution. The teaching includes exciting practicals such as heart dissections and DNA extractions from strawberries, as we consistently strive to bring Biological theories to life.
A Level Biology is a very popular subject at St George's where key theories from GCSE are built on and their complexities explored. It is a broad curriculum covering five main areas that include:
Foundations in Biology, Exchange and Transport, Biodiversity, Evolution and Disease, Communications, Homeostasis and energy and Genetics and Ecosystems.
Biology is taught in modern, purpose built laboratories which are extremely well resourced. Comprehensive textbooks are provided along with a full suite of online learning platforms through a range of EdTech platforms. Our Science Department prides itself on providing an individualised approach to learning, a strong emphasis on building practical skills and excellent examination support.
To facilitate academic stretch, girls are encouraged to take part in competitions organised by the Institute of Biology such as The Biology Challenge, The Intermediate Biology Olympiad and The British Biology Olympiad. There is also opportunity for girls to enter creative competitions such as BioArtAttack and BioBakes. We also hold an annual Science Week in which there are a number of exciting talks given by eminent scientists as well as opportunities for girls to enter Science fair competitions.
A Level Biologists are always encouraged to study above the specification and to facilitate this we have subscriptions to Biological Review and Bio Factsheets.
As part of our excellent support and co-curricular offering, we provide weekly Biology clinics for all year groups with a subject specialist. Small class sizes allow us to provide a differentiated curriculum within all of our lessons with individual support available at all times.
A Level Biologists attend a residential Field Course in the UK during their course, to undertake research for the aspects of the syllabus related to Ecology. Girls can also take advantage of an extensive range of co-curricular clubs that take place after timetabled lessons such as Science Club, Dissection club and Future Medics Club.