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Tutor Support Included

Learning remotely doesn’t mean you’re on your own! You’ll be able to message your tutor through our industry-leading learning platform.

Flexible Payment Options

Enrol today from £9.99 deposit & spread the cost over 24 months

Learn At Your Own Pace

Study wherever and whenever you want. You’ll have access to your course for one year so you can fit your learning around your other commitments.

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GCSE / IGCSE Biology excluding exams

Get in touch with us and we’ll call you back
Get in touch with us and we’ll call you back

GCSE / IGCSE Biology excluding exams

This Course at a Glance

  • Build your knowledge of amazingly complex living organisms
  • Gain mathematical skills complementary to Biology
  • Obtain an internationally recognised qualification
  • A gateway to Level 3 qualifications
  • 100% online study
  • Exam not included

About Your Course

If you have ever envisaged a career in science and research, sport, medicine, forensics or even agriculture, you will need a detailed understanding of living organisms. As the study of life and living matter, Biology is the perfect subject to explore as a steppingstone into these areas. 

The earliest level of academic qualification you can gain in Biology is at Level 2, and the GCSE or iGCSE are ideal options.

Like traditional GCSEs, iGCSEs provide a gateway to further study for students, so you can progress to Level 3 study before completing a degree. 

In this course you will explore an array of interesting and insightful modules, that cover everything from reproduction and inheritance, to the nature and variety of living organisms, ecology and the environment. 

This will enable you to identify the unifying patterns and themes in Biology and methods of adapting their use to new and changing situations. You will also have a good comprehension of biological facts, terminology, concepts, principles and practical techniques.

The course also provides options to localise the content so that the topics covered relate to your own country. As it’s studied online, extra attention has been paid to creating content that is engaging and interesting. Overall, this course has been verified as adequate preparation for anyone who wants to further their knowledge of Biology, subjects in biological sciences and more.

Getting Started

learndirect is the leading UK online course provider.

Being offered completely online, this course also provides you with the flexibility of completing your GCSE or iGCSE learning from the comfort of home, or wherever suits you best. There are no classes or restrictive timetables to adhere to, so you can simply log on and learn as and when you have the time.

Modules

There are 11 units in your course. The first two units include everything you need to know about both the GCSE and the iGCSE Biology qualification, exam locations and guidance on how to successfully study online.

Unit 3: Introduction to Science - Biology

In your first biology unit, you will learn about the principles of biological science.

Unit 4: Cell Biology

This unit covers the fundamentals of cells, the building blocks of life.

Unit 5: Organisation of cells

This unit builds on unit 4 and looks at how cells are organised into component parts of the organism, and cellular health issues.

​Unit 6: Infection and Response

Now you have an understanding of how cells and organs function, this unit looks at how cells respond to infection.

Unit 7: Bioenergetics

This unit focuses on how cells transform and use energy.

Unit 8: Homeostasis and Response

Homeostasis is the regulation of a constant internal environment, in particular how the conditions are maintained to ensure optimum conditions for metabolism and changes in response to both internal and external fluctuations.

Unit 9: Inheritance

This unit looks at how certain traits are passed on during reproduction.

Unit 10: Variation and Evolution

This unit looks at the characteristics of individuals within a population and how they occur.

Unit 11: Ecology

Your final unit looks at the Ecosystem and the impact humans have on it.

At the end of your units you will find a full set of mock exams.

Entry Requirements

There are no entry requirements required to enrol on this course.

Average completion timeframe

The average time it takes to complete the course is 18 months.

Exams required

Exams are not included.

Is Membership Required?

No membership is required to enrol on this course.

Course Fees

All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.

*You will have access to the course for 24 months.

At the end of each unit, you will find a Tutor Marked Assignment (TMA). This is completed online and submitted to your tutor. Once assessed, your tutor will return your work complete with its final grade and feedback. Once you’ve successfully passed each assignment you’ll be ready to take your GCSE or iGCSE exam!

*Please note, the exam is not included in this course.

Pearson Edexcel

Pearson Edexcel logo

If you decide to take the iGCSE exam at the end of this course and pass, you will have gained an iGCSE in Biology. 

International GCSEs (iGCSEs) enable successful progression to A Level study and beyond. This course has been created in collaboration with International Advanced Level and GCE A Level Teachers, as well as Higher Education Professors to validate the appropriateness of the qualification, including its content, skills development and assessment structure.

 

Pearson Edexcel are the UK's largest awarding body and we are regulated by Ofqual (England), SQA Accreditation (Scotland), CCEA Accreditation (Northern Ireland) and Qualifications Wales (Wales). They offer academic and vocational qualifications that are globally recognised and benchmarked, with educational excellence rooted in names like Edexcel, BTEC, EDI and LCCI.

Progression

By successfully completing this course and the associated exams, you can progress to:

  • International Advanced Level, for example in Biology
  • GCE Advanced Level, for example in Biology
  • Level 3 vocational qualifications in Science, for example, BTEC Level 3 in Applied Science
  • Other comparable, Level 3 qualifications, such as Access to Higher Education Diplomas
  • Employment, for example in a science-based industry where an apprenticeship may be available

Frequently Asked Questions

The learndirect GCSE biology course delves into the fundamental building blocks of life, exploring topics on cellular level in Cell Biology and Organisation of cells. You'll then dive into the body's defence mechanisms in Infection and Response, and how it obtains and uses energy in Bioenergetics. Moving on, Homeostasis and Response examines how organisms maintain internal balance, while Inheritance, Variation and Evolution delve into the fascinating world of genetic traits and how life adapts and changes over time. Finally, Ecology ties it all together, exploring the interactions between organisms and their environment. In essence, this course equips you with a comprehensive understanding of life, from the microscopic to the global scale.
GCSE Biology's difficulty depends on your individual strengths and interest in the subject. It delves into complex concepts like cellular machinery, genetic inheritance, and ecological interactions, which can be challenging for some. However, many aspects can be captivating, especially if you enjoy problem-solving, exploring the natural world, and understanding how life works. Remember, there are various resources available to help you grasp challenging concepts and enjoy the learning process. So, if you're curious about life and its complexities, GCSE Biology might be a rewarding journey for you.
Mastering GCSE Biology involves active learning and strategic revision. Here are some of our revision tips. You could experiment with flashcards, mind maps, practice questions, or summarising key concepts in your own words. You could also analyse past papers and mark schemes to familiarise yourself with question types and expectations. Prioritise grasping fundamentals like cell structure, energy transfer, inheritance, and ecological principles. Connect concepts to real-world examples, news articles, or documentaries to solidify understanding and boost interest. Then test your knowledge with past papers, mock exams, and online quizzes. This will help you identify areas needing improvement so you can revisit them.
GCSE Biology is a valuable GCSE choice for several reasons. It equips you with transferable skills highly sought after in diverse fields. You'll gain critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills through interpreting data, conducting experiments, and forming scientific conclusions. Additionally, you'll hone your communication skills through written reports and presentations. This qualification opens doors to numerous higher-level courses. If you enjoy the subject, GCSE Biology prepares you for A-Level Biology, a steppingstone to various university degrees in the life sciences, such as medicine, biotechnology, and environmental science. Furthermore, a biology degree, combined with your GCSE foundation, can lead to fulfilling career paths in healthcare (doctors, nurses, therapists), research (scientists, laboratory technicians), environmental protection (conservationists, wildlife biologists), and many more. Even beyond these specific fields, the analytical and problem-solving skills cultivated by biology studies are valuable assets in countless professions.
No, not in this course option. However, the course material prepares you to take it. You can add the exam later if you would like to complete it.

GCSE / IGCSE Biology excluding exams

This Course at a Glance

  • Build your knowledge of amazingly complex living organisms
  • Gain mathematical skills complementary to Biology
  • Obtain an internationally recognised qualification
  • A gateway to Level 3 qualifications
  • 100% online study
  • Exam not included

About Your Course

If you have ever envisaged a career in science and research, sport, medicine, forensics or even agriculture, you will need a detailed understanding of living organisms. As the study of life and living matter, Biology is the perfect subject to explore as a steppingstone into these areas. 

The earliest level of academic qualification you can gain in Biology is at Level 2, and the GCSE or iGCSE are ideal options.

Like traditional GCSEs, iGCSEs provide a gateway to further study for students, so you can progress to Level 3 study before completing a degree. 

In this course you will explore an array of interesting and insightful modules, that cover everything from reproduction and inheritance, to the nature and variety of living organisms, ecology and the environment. 

This will enable you to identify the unifying patterns and themes in Biology and methods of adapting their use to new and changing situations. You will also have a good comprehension of biological facts, terminology, concepts, principles and practical techniques.

The course also provides options to localise the content so that the topics covered relate to your own country. As it’s studied online, extra attention has been paid to creating content that is engaging and interesting. Overall, this course has been verified as adequate preparation for anyone who wants to further their knowledge of Biology, subjects in biological sciences and more.

Getting Started

learndirect is the leading UK online course provider.

Being offered completely online, this course also provides you with the flexibility of completing your GCSE or iGCSE learning from the comfort of home, or wherever suits you best. There are no classes or restrictive timetables to adhere to, so you can simply log on and learn as and when you have the time.

Modules

There are 11 units in your course. The first two units include everything you need to know about both the GCSE and the iGCSE Biology qualification, exam locations and guidance on how to successfully study online.

Unit 3: Introduction to Science - Biology

In your first biology unit, you will learn about the principles of biological science.

Unit 4: Cell Biology

This unit covers the fundamentals of cells, the building blocks of life.

Unit 5: Organisation of cells

This unit builds on unit 4 and looks at how cells are organised into component parts of the organism, and cellular health issues.

​Unit 6: Infection and Response

Now you have an understanding of how cells and organs function, this unit looks at how cells respond to infection.

Unit 7: Bioenergetics

This unit focuses on how cells transform and use energy.

Unit 8: Homeostasis and Response

Homeostasis is the regulation of a constant internal environment, in particular how the conditions are maintained to ensure optimum conditions for metabolism and changes in response to both internal and external fluctuations.

Unit 9: Inheritance

This unit looks at how certain traits are passed on during reproduction.

Unit 10: Variation and Evolution

This unit looks at the characteristics of individuals within a population and how they occur.

Unit 11: Ecology

Your final unit looks at the Ecosystem and the impact humans have on it.

At the end of your units you will find a full set of mock exams.

Entry Requirements

There are no entry requirements required to enrol on this course.

Average completion timeframe

The average time it takes to complete the course is 18 months.

Exams required

Exams are not included.

Is Membership Required?

No membership is required to enrol on this course.

Course Fees

All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.

*You will have access to the course for 24 months.

Excellent Marking

Assessment

At the end of each unit, you will find a Tutor Marked Assignment (TMA). This is completed online and submitted to your tutor. Once assessed, your tutor will return your work complete with its final grade and feedback. Once you’ve successfully passed each assignment you’ll be ready to take your GCSE or iGCSE exam!

*Please note, the exam is not included in this course.

Qualifications

Pearson Edexcel

Pearson Edexcel logo

If you decide to take the iGCSE exam at the end of this course and pass, you will have gained an iGCSE in Biology. 

International GCSEs (iGCSEs) enable successful progression to A Level study and beyond. This course has been created in collaboration with International Advanced Level and GCE A Level Teachers, as well as Higher Education Professors to validate the appropriateness of the qualification, including its content, skills development and assessment structure.

 

Pearson Edexcel are the UK's largest awarding body and we are regulated by Ofqual (England), SQA Accreditation (Scotland), CCEA Accreditation (Northern Ireland) and Qualifications Wales (Wales). They offer academic and vocational qualifications that are globally recognised and benchmarked, with educational excellence rooted in names like Edexcel, BTEC, EDI and LCCI.

Progression

By successfully completing this course and the associated exams, you can progress to:

  • International Advanced Level, for example in Biology
  • GCE Advanced Level, for example in Biology
  • Level 3 vocational qualifications in Science, for example, BTEC Level 3 in Applied Science
  • Other comparable, Level 3 qualifications, such as Access to Higher Education Diplomas
  • Employment, for example in a science-based industry where an apprenticeship may be available

Frequently Asked Questions

The learndirect GCSE biology course delves into the fundamental building blocks of life, exploring topics on cellular level in Cell Biology and Organisation of cells. You'll then dive into the body's defence mechanisms in Infection and Response, and how it obtains and uses energy in Bioenergetics. Moving on, Homeostasis and Response examines how organisms maintain internal balance, while Inheritance, Variation and Evolution delve into the fascinating world of genetic traits and how life adapts and changes over time. Finally, Ecology ties it all together, exploring the interactions between organisms and their environment. In essence, this course equips you with a comprehensive understanding of life, from the microscopic to the global scale.
GCSE Biology's difficulty depends on your individual strengths and interest in the subject. It delves into complex concepts like cellular machinery, genetic inheritance, and ecological interactions, which can be challenging for some. However, many aspects can be captivating, especially if you enjoy problem-solving, exploring the natural world, and understanding how life works. Remember, there are various resources available to help you grasp challenging concepts and enjoy the learning process. So, if you're curious about life and its complexities, GCSE Biology might be a rewarding journey for you.
Mastering GCSE Biology involves active learning and strategic revision. Here are some of our revision tips. You could experiment with flashcards, mind maps, practice questions, or summarising key concepts in your own words. You could also analyse past papers and mark schemes to familiarise yourself with question types and expectations. Prioritise grasping fundamentals like cell structure, energy transfer, inheritance, and ecological principles. Connect concepts to real-world examples, news articles, or documentaries to solidify understanding and boost interest. Then test your knowledge with past papers, mock exams, and online quizzes. This will help you identify areas needing improvement so you can revisit them.
GCSE Biology is a valuable GCSE choice for several reasons. It equips you with transferable skills highly sought after in diverse fields. You'll gain critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills through interpreting data, conducting experiments, and forming scientific conclusions. Additionally, you'll hone your communication skills through written reports and presentations. This qualification opens doors to numerous higher-level courses. If you enjoy the subject, GCSE Biology prepares you for A-Level Biology, a steppingstone to various university degrees in the life sciences, such as medicine, biotechnology, and environmental science. Furthermore, a biology degree, combined with your GCSE foundation, can lead to fulfilling career paths in healthcare (doctors, nurses, therapists), research (scientists, laboratory technicians), environmental protection (conservationists, wildlife biologists), and many more. Even beyond these specific fields, the analytical and problem-solving skills cultivated by biology studies are valuable assets in countless professions.
No, not in this course option. However, the course material prepares you to take it. You can add the exam later if you would like to complete it.
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