Pupils in the biology department are encouraged to develop an appreciation of and interest in the living world around them and to recognize the importance and value of biology in today’s society. There is a strong emphasis on learning by experimentation and there are many opportunities for pupils to use I.T. in their practical investigations. Regular testing ensures that the students maintain a decent knowledge and comprehension of the subject as they move up the school.

Biology is taught as part of a combined science course in Years 7 and 8 and topics covered include cells, reproduction in animals and plants, variation, classification, microbes and disease and the effects of alcohol, smoking and other drugs on the body. Students are introduced to the "scientific method" and are taught how to use standard laboratory equipment safely.

Pupils begin the GCSE course in year 9 and conclude it at Easter in year 11. The AQA specification is followed and topics covered at GCSE level include adaptation and competition, food chains, the effects of humans on the environment, nerves, hormones, inheritance, genes and genetic engineering, evolution, fossils, photosynthesis, enzymes and respiration. During year 9 the pupils also take a field trip to Folkestone to study the changes in flora and fauna from the high to the low water point on the beach. The pupils sit their "core" GCSE exam in year 10 and the "additional" exam in year 11. Pupils following the separate sciences course also sit their extra module in year 11. During the GCSE course pupils also cover a Centre Assessed Unit which represents 25% of the total assessment for core science, additional science and separate biology qualifications. They complete an Investigative Skills Assignment, which is normal class practical work followed by an externally set, internally assessed test taking 45 minutes. A separate practical skills mark is also awarded.

The subject is increasingly popular at AS and A2 level and an average of 75% of students pass the subject with an A or B grade every year. Throughout the 6th form pupils are encouraged to contribute actively to lessons, to explore ideas and concepts independently and to broaden their knowledge and understanding of the subject with wide reading outside the classroom. Pupils develop a variety of experimental skills and sit a practical exam at the end of both the AS and A2 course. Many of the MVI pupils in the department leave school to read biological degree courses at university and three to six students per year receive places to read medicine.

The OCR specification is taught in the 6th form at the moment but the department is currently in the process of selecting a new A level specification to start teaching in September 2008 as part of the latest national A level curriculum review.