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Overview
GCSE Biology is available to be completed over one or two years.
This course is suitable for progression onto healthcare courses such as nursing or any biology-based level 3 course such as Access to HE or A-Levels. It is also for students who need a science GCSE for Primary Teaching.
The exam board we use is Edexcel.
The next courses start early September.
How you’ll learn
Teaching is done through a combination of lectures, tutorials and practical experiments.
Teaching is face-to-face in college, not online.
Assessment is by two external examinations which are scheduled for May and June 2026. The exams can be done at Foundation Tier (allowing achievement at grades 1 – 5) or Higher tier (allowing achievement at grades 4 – 9). Students can choose their Tier in February.
There is no assessed coursework for these courses but there are 8 practical investigations which are compulsory for all students. The exams include questions relating to these practicals.
Attendance at a minimum of 80% is required for entry to the exams.
Entry and progression
What you need and where it leads
- Entry requirements
- This course Level 2
- Further study
Entry requirements
There are no specific entry requirements but English and Maths at grade D (or equivalent) would be helpful as English and maths skills form part of the assessment outcomes for the course.
Not sure you meet these? Talk to us and we will help you find the right starting point.
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At North Lindsey College
At Doncaster College
Careers it can lead to
With further study or experience
- Biochemists and Biomedical Scientists £37,400 a year
- Biological Scientists £65,800 a year
Typical pay is the UK median for each job (Lightcast, October 2026).
Your next step
Apply now, come and see us first, or ask us anything.
Want to visit first?
See the facilities, meet the tutors and ask your questions in person.
Got a question?
Ask us about the course, entry requirements or funding.
Call 01724 294125
What happens after you apply
1
You apply
Apply online and you’ll get a confirmation email.
2
You meet your tutor
We’ll invite you to an interview to talk through the course and your plans, and make sure it’s right for you.
3
You get an offer
We’ll email you an offer, then invite you to enrol.