GCSE Biology for Adults
Course Code: Q271189
Key Information
Course type:
GCSEs & Functional Skills
Campus:
Highbury Campus
Start Date:
18 Sept 2025
Duration:
8 months
Attendance:
Evening
Fees:
£195.00 or Free

GCSE Biology is the study of living organisms and their structure, life cycles, adaptations and environment. You will study both animal and physical biology.
This GCSE (grades 9–1, where 9 is the highest grade) in Biology is a linear qualification that consists of 2 externally examined assessments.
Who is the course for?
- Those wanting to progress into further/higher education for studies and/or a career in science, biology, pharmacology, ecology, forensic science, etc.
- Those with a keen interest in biology who are looking to expand their skills and knowledge.
The qualification will cover the following topics:
• Cell biology
• Organisation
• Infection and response
• Bioenergetics
• Homeostasis and response
• Inheritance, variation and evolution
• Ecology
• Key ideas
Learners are required to hold a minimum of level 1 qualifications in English and maths (GCSE, Functional Skills or equivalent) or to successfully complete English comprehension and maths reasoning tests at Level 1
All students are expected to attend all of their timetabled sessions on time, unless prior agreement has been made and agreed with their Tutor. For qualification classes the expectation is a minimum of 85% attendance. If a student arrives more than ten minutes late for class they may be asked to leave. If a student is absent for three consecutive weeks without notice they will automatically be withdrawn from the course.
Your progress will be assessed throughout the course using a variety of methods within the classroom (required practical activity, group discussion, group work, lab work, etc.). At the end of the course (normally May/June), you will complete 2 final written examinations which are externally marked/graded by the awarding body (AQA). Results are released in August.
Those wanting to progress into further/higher education for studies and/or a career in science, biology, pharmacology, ecology, forensic science, etc.
GCSE Biology for Adults
You may also be interested in
Related Features
Event 11-02-2026
February Open Event
Check out all the fantastic opportunities available by coming along to our next cross-campus open event, from 4.30-7.30pm on Wednesday, 11 February.
NEWS 03-12-2024
Airbus inspires in WiSTEM event
Six of our A Level maths, physics and engineering students visited Airbus in Hilsea for a Women in STEM event. They learned about possible careers in the space and engineering sector, discovered how satellites are designed, tested and built, and were even able to try out some of the equipment and processes for themselves.
NEWS 02-04-2025
Maths students shine in regional finals
Eight of our students have competed in the regional finals of the nationwide MEI Maths Challenge in Brighton.
NEWS 19-12-2025
Prizes galore for Sixth Form's star students
Hard work, exceptional results, team spirit, going the extra mile and leading by example are all attributes of the winners of this year's City of Portsmouth College Sixth Form Awards.
NEWS 17-12-2025
City of Portsmouth College winter closures
All City of Portsmouth College campuses officially close for the winter break at lunchtime on Friday 19 December, reopening for lessons on Tuesday 6 January 2026.
NEWS 16-12-2025
Lively mock election at City of Portsmouth College ends in historical first-ever tie
Clapping, booing, insightful questions and bold statements – and an historic tie – were all part of the picture at City of Portsmouth College’s annual A level Politics Mock Election at Sixth Form Campus.

