AS and A2
The AS course covers the core topics of cell Biology, Biochemistry, Enzymes, basic Ecology, Genetics and Human Physiology of the heart, lungs and circulation. Innovative laboratory and on-line activities complement carefully devised teaching programmes to ensure motivation and learning are sustained throughout the course. [You can sample the SNAB online course at 'www.snabonline.com' and then clicking on 'free trial' and 'student tour'.]

Coursework at AS consists of a Visit or Issue Report, and a pre-released 60 minute Practical Work Review Paper at the end of the A2 year.

The A2 (2nd year of A-level) course includes the core topics of Ecology, Respiration, Forensic Science, Immunity, Photosynthesis, Evolution and the Human Physiology of Homeostasis, Digestion and the Nervous System, including some elementary Psychology. The examinations at the end of the second year will include: four unit papers (one of 60 minutes, two of 75 minutes and one of 90 minutes); the 60 minute Practical Review Paper; and a final 120 minute synoptic paper which includes a comprehension on a scientific article released a week in advance of the exam. There is also an element of coursework in the form of an individual investigation.

Small sets are taught by a number of dons who teach successive topics. Common testing and assessments run throughout the courses. The subject gives plenty of scope for expeditions to local university and medical research centres, Oxford museums and botanic gardens, the Cotswold Wildlife Park, the London Zoo and Aquarium. There is also a long weekend field trip to the Gower Peninsula at the beginning of the second year where Ecology projects on rocky shore flora and fauna are carried out.

The projects laboratory provides extra scope for studying practically some of the highly significant developments in biotechnology as well as biomedical topics. The sixth form resource area is equipped with iMac computers, reference texts, biological and medical journals and material to support A-level study outside the laboratory. We also use twelve laptops for classroom-based use of the SNAB website

Requirements
Potential biologists will have inquisitive, logical and practical minds. The curriculum will be found equally stimulating by pupils with major interests as diverse as medical physiology and natural history. Boys should feel confident in applying what they have learned in all three sciences at IGCSE to developing their understanding and knowledge of Biology. It should also be noted that statistical methods are used in analysing data. There is some Biochemistry within the course and thus Chemistry to AS/A level would support Biology well.

After A level
Biology in combination with other A levels can lead to university courses in Natural Sciences, the Biomedical Sciences (Anatomy, Biochemistry, Pharmacology and Physiology), Genetics, Psychology, Biology and the plethora of specialisms such as Microbiology, Environmental Sciences and Marine Biology. Further information on Medicine, Veterinary Science and all Biologyrelated careers is available on the Biology Website and in the Universities pages of this booklet.