Human Biology – Esher Sixth Form College

Female Biology student in a white lab coat smiling

Four female Biology students, wearing googles and in white lab coats smiling

Male Biology student looking into a microscope

Human Biology Level 3 AAQ Cambridge Advanced National, equivalent to one A Level

This course will give you a comprehensive understanding of key biological concepts in the human body, including genetics, health and diseases, human physiology and biomedical techniques.

Through a combination of theoretical study and hands-on experience, you will develop the necessary knowledge and skills to support progression into science or health-based degree courses, and/or a career in the science industry.

In addition to the College Entry Requirements, to qualify for this course you will also need to achieve a minimum of:

Grade 4-4 in GCSE Combined Science or Grade 4 in Biology
Grade 4 in GCSE English Language or English Literature.
Grade 4 in GCSE Maths.

The Human Biology course is an engaging and comprehensive programme designed for students who have a keen interest in understanding the intricate workings of the human body. It’s tailored for those aspiring to careers in healthcare, biomedical research, or related fields.

The following units will be covered over the two-year course:

1. Fundamentals of Human Biology:

Learn the basics of cell structure, biochemistry, and genetics.
Explore how cells function, reproduce, and communicate.
Understand how body systems work individually and together to maintain health.

2. Health & Disease:

Study the factors that influence human health, such as lifestyle and environment.
Examine common diseases, their causes, and prevention strategies.
Dive into the workings of the immune system and how it fights infections.

3. Genetics:

Discover the principles of inheritance and how traits are passed down.
Delve into DNA structure, gene expression, and genetic variation.
Learn about genetic technologies and their applications in medicine.

4. Biomedical Techniques:

Gain hands-on experience with laboratory methods used in healthcare.
Practice techniques like microscopy, biochemical testing, and DNA analysis.
Understand the importance of these techniques in diagnosing and treating diseases.

A further two units from either; nutrition and metabolism, human reproduction, the brain, or drug development, will also be covered.

The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, providing a well-rounded education. Students engage in experiments, project work, and real-world applications, enhancing their understanding and preparing them for further studies or careers in human biology-related fields.

In the examined units, students will study key knowledge and understanding relevant to human biology. In the non-examined assessment (NEA) units, students will demonstrate knowledge and skills an applied or practical assignment.

There are six units altogether. Two externally assessed units (44%) and four non-examined assessed (NEA) units- 56%.

Exam board is OCR.

Human Biology can be combined with a wide variety of courses, including A Levels and other vocational courses, such as Health and Social Care, which offers great preparation for degrees in nursing, midwifery and related fields.

It goes well with courses where there is some science-orientated thinking such as Biology, Chemistry, Psychology and Sociology.

Or you can combine it with PE A Level or the Sport Coaching and Development BTEC, which provide excellent preparation for degrees in sport-related fields.

Should I take the single, Human Biology vocational course?
Before you decide, you need to think about what career or degree course you want to go into. The Human Biology vocational course is equivalent to one A Level and is for students who don’t necessarily want to go into a science career but realise science is an incredibly useful and flexible subject on any application. Human Biology is well respected for students wanting to go into the healthcare industry or sports sciences who recognise the value of having a science qualification to keep their options open.

What extra support/enrichment activities are on offer?
In addition to giving you full support with your assignments, we plan a range of visits and invite speakers to give insight into how science is practised in the real world.

What do our students say about the taking a vocational course?
“I chose to do both a Science BTEC and Business BTEC course, because I wanted to do practical subjects without the pressure of exams. I also wanted to keep track of my results (by being continually assessed). My mum was initially a bit hesitant that I should have chosen A Levels instead, but BTECs proved to be way better for me. I really enjoyed the course, and the practical skills and knowledge I gained from the BTEC set me up nicely for university. I’m now at the University of Surrey studying Biochemistry, which I am really enjoying.” Freddie.

Here are some typical university destinations that our students, who gain a vocational science qualification, go on to. Click on a destination to see some examples of courses they have taken.