Biology has great relevance to the lives of young people today. To have an understanding of how living systems (including humans) function in our environmentally-challenged World, is a starting point for the altruistic and introspective behaviour upon which individuals and societies depend on for their survival. We are living in a time when advances in medicine and biotechnology may be running ahead of our ability to use the technology safely and unselfishly. Everybody has a view on infertility treatment, drug testing, genetically modified organisms and mass extinction. Knowledge of Biology will empower the next generation to make responsible decisions based on an understanding of the underlying science rather than populist reaction.

All pupils at Box Hill School study Biology as part of a broad, balanced curriculum until the end of Year 9. Thereafter, Biology is an optional subject. Biology is a very popular science both at GCSE and IB levels. Practical work and fieldwork are an essential part of our Biology courses. We use local and residential field-study centres to aid our delivery of the environmental aspects of our courses.

In the first two years, Biology is delivered as an identifiable subject as part of an integrated science course. Topics covered include body structure, cell functions, reproduction and environmental biology.

At IGCSE students will follow the Edexcel Biology course as a separate qualification.

At IB Biology is offered at Higher and Standard level. The course includes units on biochemistry, cell structure and function, organ structure and function, plant science, biotechnology and environmental Biology. Residential field work on the coast of Wales is an integral part of our course as is an extended group project.

For more information about the Biology department, please contact Mr. Andrew Vardon, Head of Biology at vardona@boxhillschool.org.uk