Places in London to do A-Level Chemistry / Biology

[adriantoll]

Hi

I'm 37, and I'm going to apply to study a 4-year medical degree at a few places like UCL, King's, St. George's and Bristol (I haven't made a definite decision yet), some of which require A-Level Chemistry and Biology. I don't have either of those - I studied Maths, Physics & French in 1989 - 1991, with B-B-C results, have a 2.1 MA (Hons) in Psychology from Edinburgh (1996), and a 2.1 BA (Hons) in Sculpture (2006). So I'm looking around for places in London to do Chemistry and perhaps Biology in one year, as I'd like to apply this autumn for 2011 entry. I work freelance, and only two days a week, so have a reasonable amount of flexibility when it comes to work patterns.

So my question is this: does anyone know of any good places in London where I can study A-Level Chemistry and Biology in one year? I'd rather not study using distance learning as I don't learn best like that - but would be willing to do it if people are able to give solid recommendations and it's in fact the best option given what's available.

Also, I'm aware that this forum is for people who aren't already medical students, and I wonder whether I might be able to post these questions in another part of the forums so I also get responses from people who've already been through this process? But I'm new here and don't want to post inappropriately - I've had a look through the different areas, and can't see anywhere obvious. Do people who've been through the process occasionally dip into this area and answer questions out of the goodness of their heart?

Thanks
Adrian

P.S. I spent a while searching through the forums, but couldn't find anything that answered my specific question - if there's another post that does answer it that I've missed, please point me towards it!

[millietwigg]

Southwark college did bio and chem evening classes last year (2008-2009). Not sure if they still do it but they did allow you to do the full A-level in 1 year. There were a few people who were doing it at the same time as me who did very well and most got into Medicine. I think that there is also a college in Hammersmith that also did it but that was further for me to travel to.

As for Southwark being a 'good' college....I wouldn't go that far. They had teaching issues and there was little continuity but to be honest, when you are a mature student, you will manage. You understand the importance of good grades and will make it work. Almost all of the students were mature students looking to get into medicine or dentistry so you would be in good company. Plus, it's about 1 minute from Waterloo so is very good for transport links.

If you want help with textbooks or anything, I can help you with the chemistry side. I did a biology degree so wouldn't be any help for you there.

Emily

[adriantoll]

Hey Emily - thanks for that. I'd looked at Southwark College, but couldn't find anything about 1-year A-Level courses on their website, except in their News section - I'll have a harder look now. I'll give you a shout about the textbooks if I go there, as which ones I'll need will obviously depend on the syllabus of the college I go to. Congrats on the Barts offer!

[millietwigg]

Thanks.
I'm not sure if the website will say that you can do the full a-level in a year but when I went to enrole on the course, I asked to do both AS and A-level in a year and they said that was fine. You may do as well to give them a call and check. I guess if you are paying for the course, they don't mind what you put yourself up for!

[Bubblez.MD]

Hammersmith college do the accelerated A2 Chemistry in a year (evening classes) and they also run just an AS evening class if you wanted to do that. Hope that helps, msg me if u need more info x

[adriantoll]

The courses at Hammersmith College look perfect, and it's easy for me to get to, so i've applied there. Thanks!

[goldhawkgonk]

I did Access to Medicine at Birkbeck and would really recommend it as preparation for the GAMSAT (for St Georges only). But the course itself isn't particularly recognized on its own - eg, none of the Universities will see it as a sufficient substitute for AS/A Levels. Good luck - there's a lot of material to cover in a year!!

[adriantoll]

Yep, it's going to be a busy year - but then that's probably good preparation for a medical degree! Thanks for the GAMSAT tip - I'll take a look.

[dotvicky]

For what it's worth, I just did A2 Chemistry completely home study (and got the A) in 6 months. I used Campbell Harris for my exams (including the practical). Not sure if this would work for the new syllabus but it might be worth checking it out.

Cheers
Vicky

[adriantoll]

Hi Vicky - Thanks for the encouragement, and congratulations on the A! I'll definitely have a look at Campbell Harris. Good luck with Barts and Bristol...