Biology is the study of living organisms and life processes. It explores how living things function, grow, evolve, and interact with one another and their environment. From the smallest cells to complex ecosystems, biology helps us understand the natural world and the science behind health, disease, and biodiversity.  

At Knutsford Academy we aim to nurture curiosity, critical thinking, and lifelong interest in the living world. We work to ensure that every student builds a strong foundation of biological knowledge while developing the practical and analytical skills they need to succeed.  

We study the AQA A Level Biology specification.  

Students learn the following topics: 

  1. Biological molecules 

  1. Cells 

  1. Organisms exchange substances with their environment 

  1. Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms 

  1. Energy transfers in and between organisms 

  1. Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments 

  1. Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems 

  1. The control of gene expression 

Assessment

 

This qualification is assessed via external exams at the end of Year 13. 

  • Paper 1 Any content from Topics 1-4 including relevant practical skills 

  • Paper 2 Any content from Topics 5-8 including relevant practical skills 

  • Paper 3 Any content from Topics 1-8 including relevant practical skills 

Enrichment

  • Revision Workshops

  • A Level Biology Live 

  • Year 12 Field Trip to Blencathra 

 

Careers

  • Marine Biologist  

  • Microbiologist 

  • Biomedical Scientist 

  • Geneticist 

  • Ecologist 

  • Pharmacologist 

  • Biotechnologist 

  • Zoologist 

  • Forensic Scientist 

  • Environmental Scientist 

  • Conservation Officer 

  • Wildlife Biologist 

  • Sustainability Officer 

  • Doctor 

  • Dentist 

  • Nurse 

  • Veterinary Surgeon 

  • Physiotherapist 

  • Paramedic 

  • Radiographer 

  • Pharmacist 

  • Midwife 

  • Occupational Therapist 

Useful Links

 

Contact

Mrs E Riley: ery@knutsfordacademy.org.uk

Head of Biology

Chemistry examines the interactions between substances and their surroundings. We study chemistry to learn about the structure of materials and how they will behave in various contexts.  Think of chemistry as the secret code that explains why your cake rises, your phone battery charges, or your shampoo lathers. It’s often called the “central science” because it connects physics and biology in fascinating ways. Chemistry trains you to think critically, solve problems logically, and handle complex information—skills valued in every career. 

At Knutsford Academy we aim to provide students with opportunities to investigate, observe, experiment and think about chemical concepts. We work to ensure that all learners are equipped with the skills and understanding of chemistry to make them scientifically literate and able to pursue the study of chemical sciences at higher levels should they wish.  

We study the AQA A Level Chemistry specification.  

Students learn the following topics: 

  1. Foundations in Chemistry 

  1. Periodic Table and Energy 

  1. Core Organic Chemistry 

  1. Physical Chemistry and Transition Elements 

  1. Organic Chemistry and Analysis 

Practical skills will be covered throughout the course and will be assessed both through practical endorsements and written assessments. 

Assessment

This qualification is assessed via external exams at the end of Year 13. 

  • Paper 1 – Periodic Table, elements and physical chemistry   

  • Paper 2 – Synthesis and analytical techniques 

  • Paper 3 – Unified Chemistry 

  • Practical Endorsement in Chemistry – These practical activities take place throughout the course. They do not contribute towards the final grade, but they must be completed as part of the course. 

Enrichment

  • Revision Workshops

  • Chemistry Olympiad 

  • Cambridge Chemistry Challenge 

  • Chemistry Society 

Careers

  • Research Chemist 

  • Chemical Engineer 

  • Doctor 

  • Dentist 

  • Pharmacist 

  • Veterinary Surgeon 

  • Pharmacologist 

  • Biomedical Scientist 

  • Nanotechnologist 

  • Cosmetic Chemist 

  • Product Developer 

  • Data Analyst 

  • Forensic Scientist 

  • Banking/Finance 

Useful Links

 

Contact

Mr B Albery: bay@knutsfordacademy.org.uk

Head of Chemistry

Physics is the study of how stuff works.  It explores the use of models, the concept of cause and effect, the phenomena of “action at a distance”, and the use of differences as the drivers of change.  From quarks in nucleons of atoms all the way to the universe itself, physics helps us make sense of everything around us, on every scale.  

At Knutsford Academy we aim to nurture curiosity, critical thinking, and lifelong interest in understanding the 'hows and whys' of how stuff works. We work to ensure that every student builds a strong foundation of physics knowledge while developing the practical and analytical skills they need to succeed.  

We study the AQA A Level Physics specification.  

Students learn the following topics: 

  1. Measurements and their errors 

  1. Particles and radiation 

  1. Waves 

  1. Mechanics and materials 

  1. Electricity 

  1. Further mechanics and thermal physics 

  1. Fields and their consequences 

  1. Nuclear physics 

  1. Astrophysics

Assessment

 

his qualification is assessed via external exams at the end of Year 13.

  • Paper 1 Any content from Topics 1 – 6.1   

  • Paper 2 Any content from Topics 1 & 6.2 – 8  

  • Paper 3 Any content from Topic 9 and questions on practical skills & data analysis from any required practical 

Enrichment

  • Revision Workshops

  • BPhO Senior Physics Challenge 

  • Previously: CERN trip

KS5 Science Curriculum Maps

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