Inspection

Inspection Report: Biology

Biology is offered as a separate science in Year 9 and is then taught as a separate modular GCSE, or as part of the modular dual-award science scheme.

Standards of attainment seen in lessons, files and workbooks were good or better, relative to pupils’ abilities. Year 11 dual award pupils were able to understand the factors which lead to antibiotic resistance in bacteria and the consequences of that resistance in causing potential health problems in human populations. Year 12 pupils understood clearly the mechanism by which carbon dioxide influences specific parts of the brain and determines breathing rates in humans.

Progress in lessons at all levels is at least good and often rapid in relation to pupils’ abilities. In a Year 11 lesson, pupils were able to discuss and debate the advantages and disadvantages of controlling fertility in humans using biological knowledge to underpin their discussions. Their ability to modify their opinions as the discussions developed and material became more complex within the lesson, was of a very high level.

Pupils' attitudes to learning at all stages are very good. Relationships between staff and pupils are excellent. Behaviour is very good and an effective learning environment is developed in all classes. During class discussions pupils were very supportive of each other, even when errors of language or fact were made. Pupils of different ages take the many opportunities to extend their learning by taking part in national competitions such as the 'Biology Olympiad' or school based activities such as 'The Natural History Club' and 'The Virtual Insect Collection'.

Lessons are well planned and use a variety of materials. ICT is used extensively by staff and many opportunities arise for pupils to use and extend their ICT skills in areas such as data-logging and in producing class presentations using interactive whiteboard technology. Teacher knowledge and understanding at all levels are very secure. Practical work is used very effectively to stimulate progress at all levels and to reinforce material covered in theory lessons. SEN and EAL pupils are well integrated into lessons at all levels and individual education plans were used by staff in a number of lessons observed. The department benefits from cross-curricular work such as joint field-work with the geography department.

The leadership and management of the department are very strong and set the tone for the department which has successfully integrated four new members of staff in the last two years. All teaching staff are given specific responsibilities within the department which is of benefit to their long-term career development. The use of pupil monitoring is well advanced and used extensively.

Parents' participation is encouraged; including a number who are taking part in experiments involving the extraction of human DNA.