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 for Adults

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 If a student is absent for three consecutive weeks without notice they will automatically be withdrawn from the course.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.

School Leavers under the age of 19 do not have to pay fees on any full time courses, though may have to pay for their second year if turning 19 during their studies. If you’re aged 19 or over you might qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan. It’s easy to apply for and you won’t have to pay anything back until you’re earning over £25,000. If you are studying a part-time course and you receive one of the following benefits, or you depend financially on someone who does, you may be entitled to have your tuition fees waived: Job Seekers Allowance, Income Support. You will, however, have to pay any awarding body/assessment fees (unless you are on a first full level 2 course). * If you are in receipt of Working Tax Credit or receive other allowances, you may be eligible to claim concessionary rates. If you are entitled to a fee concession you will be asked to provide proof of your entitlement. It is essential that you inform us if your entitlement changes at any time during your course.

Those wanting to progress into further/higher education for studies and/or a career in science, biology, pharmacology, ecology, forensic science, etc.

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