Biology
Biology is the study of life and living things. At St. Helen’s, girls are given the opportunity to explore the subject in all its splendour, ranging from how tiny molecules of DNA control life in the cells of every living organism through to how interactions between these simple cells can produce complex systems and the development of highly intelligent multicellular organisms. We encourage the girls to see the interrelationships between living organisms and their environments on Earth to see ‘The Big Picture.’
With many new developments occurring in the scientific world, it is important for students to understand how these changes will affect themselves and society so that they can make educated choices about the moral, social and ethical implications.
The Biology Department has high expectations for all students and aims to provide them with an enjoyable, challenging and rewarding learning experience. Girls are given opportunities to develop their practical skills whilst being given a solid understanding of the very basics of the subject in order to build up a deeper understanding of important biological concepts.
Course Structure
In Years 7 to 9, girls are taught in mixed ability groups for one lesson per week. We cover some of the basic biological principles such as cells, plant and animal reproduction, photosynthesis and respiration. We also look at the role of organisms in, and their interactions with, their environment.
In Years 10 and 11, girls follow the dual or triple award Edexcel IGCSE syllabus. All groups are taught for 2 lessons a week. In 2007, 100% of those taking Biology GCSE achieved A*-A.
In the Sixth Form we have a very high uptake of girls studying Biology for A level and the International Baccalaureate. Class sizes are kept small to allow a greater depth of discussion of the subject. Every year the A2 and IB girls visit the Amersham Field Centre to carry out practical field work to complement their ecology modules. In 2007, 79% of those taking A2 Biology achieved an A or B grade.
