Year 10 – 11
Biology
Key Stage: KS4
Exam Board: AQA
Qualification Gained: GCSE Biology
We aim to cultivate confident and passionate learners who can apply the big ideas of science in real-life contexts by developing strong scientific literacy and sparking curiosity.
GCSE Biology at Hammersmith Academy deepens students’ understanding of living organisms, systems and processes through a curriculum designed around a dynamic spiral model. Students revisit key biological ideas multiple times across the course, strengthening long-term retention and enabling them to make increasingly sophisticated links.
The curriculum supports learners through:
- Retrieval practice embedded throughout lessons
- Required practicals, strengthening investigative and analytical skills
- Synoptic links between topics such as genetics, ecology, health and homeostasis
- Targeted support for all learners, including those with SEND
- Assessment for learning, using modelling and feedback to secure progress
- Mathematical and analytical integration, including graphs, data interpretation and biological calculations
Topics requiring greater maturity—such as homeostasis, genetics, disease and cellular processes—are introduced progressively and revisited in Year 11 to secure mastery.
By the end of the course, students show confidence in applying biological concepts to unfamiliar contexts, interpreting experimental data, evaluating evidence and completing required practicals with accuracy and independence.
Year-by-Year Curriculum
Year 10 – Foundations of Life Processes
Students begin by revisiting core biological principles, expanding into genetics, ecology and homeostasis. Single Science students explore additional content in greater depth.
Modules:
- Module 1: Inheritance + Ecology (Single Science additions applied)
- Module 2: Homeostasis + Reproduction (Single)
- Module 3: Variation & Evolution + Homeostasis (Single)
- Module 4: Photosynthesis Required Practical + Evolution (Single)
- Module 5: Photosynthesis Required Practical + Plants Booklet
- Module 6: Topic information to be added here when provided
Students also complete required practicals linked to microscopy, enzymes, photosynthesis and osmosis as part of the paper-based assessments.
Year 11 – Deepening Understanding & Preparing for Exams
Year 11 revisits more complex biological systems and prepares students for the extended application required in GCSE assessments.
Modules:
- Module 1: Biology Review — Core Principles & Retrieval
- Module 2: Osmosis — Theory, Application & Required Practical
- Module 3: Enzymes Required Practical + Infection and Response (Single)
- Module 4: Biology Synoptic
- Module 5: Topic information to be added here when provided
- Module 6: Topic information to be added here when provided
By the end of Year 11, students have revisited all major areas of biology, strengthened exam technique and completed all required practical work.
Skills Gained
Studying GCSE Biology develops:
- Analytical thinking and data interpretation
- Practical laboratory skills
- Understanding of biological systems and processes
- Application of models and scientific theory
- Mathematical fluency (graphs, calculations, rates)
- Critical thinking and evaluation of scientific claims
- Evidence-based decision-making
These skills support further study in A-Level Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Health & Social Care and a wide range of STEM qualifications.
Partnerships & Enrichment
Students benefit from a range of opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom:
- STEM clubs and competitions
- Science Museum visits
- Biology masterclasses
- West London Partnership science events
- Practical workshops and required practical support sessions
These experiences help students connect biology to real-world applications and future pathways.
Potential Careers
GCSE Biology provides an excellent foundation for careers in:
Medicine and Healthcare (nursing, midwifery, paramedic science) | Biomedical Science, Genetics and Biotechnology | Environmental Science and Conservation | Veterinary Science and Animal Care | Physiotherapy and Sports Science | Research, Pharmaceuticals and Pathology | Nutrition and Public Health
Biology is a facilitating subject, valued highly by universities and employers.
