Biology
In biology we aim to excite and inspire our students' interest in the natural world, described by Sir David Attenborough as 'the greatest source of intellectual interest'.
Biology at City
Biology is a subject that stimulates a spirit of enquiry, equipping students with valuable knowledge and understanding of the world around us.
Why study biology at City?
Biology students keenly engage with challenging and exciting questions about living organisms and their environments. Over the course of several years, students develop their skills in data analysis, critical evaluation and collaboration to deepen their understanding of the scientific process.
Biology at City is ever-evolving; we believe that students learn best by interrogating the latest research and evidence, whether that is found in peer-reviewed journals or deduced from experiments conducted in our very own labs. Students are also encouraged to consider wider ethical applications of biological innovations. For example, should embryonic stem cells or human-animal hybrid cells be used in medicine? Which genes should we test for in prenatal screening? Should vaccinations be compulsory? We aim to teach students how to evaluate, discuss and write about these issues with sensitivity and thought.
Our Staff
Curriculum
Year 10-11
In year 10 and year 11, students go on to study a fantastic range of topics, both inspiring students and ensuring that they are well-prepared for A level. Year 10 topics include: cells and cell transport, breathing, the heart and circulation, respiration, thermoregulation, blood glucose control, inheritance of alleles, evolution, selective breeding, and nutrient cycles. Year 11 topics include: digestive enzymes, the immune system, kidneys, microbes in food production and energy in ecosystems.
Sixth form
At A level, we study biology by investigating real-life situations as opposed to theory alone. For example, we start with an account of Mark, a 15-year-old who suffered from a stroke, and Peter, an adult suffers from a heart attack. We study the biological principles that are needed to help us understand the factors which influenced Mark and Peter. Further topics include: lifestyle; health and risk; genes and health; voice of the genome; biodiversity and natural resources; infection, immunity and forensics; grey matter.
"Taking biology at A level has been the best decision I have made this year. It is always interesting, the lessons are interactive and really challenge me to think"
Beyond the curriculum
Students regularly attend lectures and conferences relating to biology. There is a great number to choose from in London and students make full use of these opportunities. There is a field course for Sixth Form students which takes place in Pembrokeshire, Wales, and this is an excellent opportunity to take part in original research on shore organisms.
‘Here, what counts are ideas. And in the heat of adolescence, students can develop what they think and believe is important, often giving them confidence that will last a lifetime.’ Read @clsghead ‘s article in today’s @telegraph via the link in our bio.
Read moreOur latest tweet
24 November 2023
Year 12 mathematicians had a great trip to the maths in action conference last week. Topics covered included Fermat's last theorem and transforming mobius strips, how MRI scanners function & how numbers determine which musical notes sound good together.
