Biology
Biology is a rapidly developing science which has, and will continue to have, far reaching ramifications for the world and society. Our department comprises seven members of teaching staff, two full-time technicians and is well-resourced with a plethora of practical equipment and stimulus material, including a hippopotamus skull, a preserved human brain, a stuffed platypus and an eight-foot model of the DNA double helix.
Lower School
Is there such a thing as ‘good bacteria’?
Why does bread taste sweet after chewing?
In the UIV (Y8), students follow a tailored biology course which not only bridges the gap between the general science studies in the MIV (Year 7) and their IGCSE course, but also nurtures their growing curiosity. Their ability to work independently is fostered by a strong emphasis on practical work and activities ranging from testing the effect of light on photosynthesis to modelling how the digestive system works.
Middle School
How do tumours develop?
Can spinal cord damage be repaired?
Students in the LV (Y9) start the Edexcel IGCSE specification. This course provides students with the opportunity to learn about and engage in discussion on exciting contemporary developments, such as screening for genetic disorders and the ethics of stem cell therapy. Discovery through practical work is at the heart of teaching and learning. We also have a one-day fieldtrip to Epping Forest in the V (Y10).
Senior School
Can a chimpanzee be taught to speak with sign language?
Are humans still evolving?
Biology is a popular subject in the Senior School, with around 70 students in our VII and VIII (Y12 and Y13) classes. Students study the OCR A level specification. Practical activities include genetically engineering glow-in-the-dark bacteria and going on a field trip to Pembrokeshire at the end of the VII (Y12). Many students go on to biology related degrees, such as medicine, biochemistry and natural sciences. In both years, students have two teachers covering different aspects of the syllabus, with a carefully balanced combination of personalised support and independent research.
Beyond the classroom
Have you ever wondered what the inside of a snake looks like?
Can genes be switched on and off?
The department provides opportunities for students to run a number of extracurricular activities, such as dissecting a snake, learning about the physiology of a racehorse or listening to medical experts discussing a variety of cases. We have a well-established Gardening Club, which tends to all the plants in the department, as well as designing and building their own vegetable and herb plot.
A large number of our student participate in the Biology Challenge and the British Biology Olympiad each year, as well as a wide range of essay competitions including the Peterhouse Kelvin Science Prize. Our Senior Scholarship entrants have included essays on a variety of topics including construction of an artificial uterus, the neuroscience of pain and the development of chemotherapy drugs from plants.
In October 2023, the biology department led an expedition to the captivating Azores archipelago. During this week, VI and VII students explored volcanic lakes, hot springs, cascading waterfalls, and botanical gardens. This was an immersive trip, aligning with the GCSE and A level courses.
For more information on science beyond the classroom, please click here.
