Chemistry

“To fully develop every pupil’s scientific curiosity, capability and passion”

KS3 (Year 7&8) 

Chemistry is taught in one lesson a week to Year 7 and from September 2009 Year 8 as well. Pupils will follow the “Exploring Science: How Science Works” Scheme of learning and also complete some project work as well. 

In year 7&8 pupils learn a variety of science skills, from how to safely use a Bunsen burner to what makes a good theory. 

GCSE (Years 9,10&11) From Year 9 we follow the Edexcel 360Science Scheme of Learning. Pupils will start their GCSE exams with the first module in the March of Year 9 and the last module in June of Year 11. Almost all pupils attain a full GCSE in Chemistry. 

AS and A Level AQA 

A Level Chemistry is a stimulating and exciting subject. It follows on from GCSE Double Award Science or GCSE Chemistry. Roughly a third of the teaching time is spent on practical work which pupils often enjoy. We teach the AQA course which is a six part modular course. Both AS Chemistrys consist of three units, Module 1 is taken  in January. Module 2 is taken in June and Module 3 is an internal unit based around practicals that is taken at the end of the spring term. A2 Follows a similar pattern. There is no coursework. 

Full details are available from the AQA Website including the specification 

It is required that our students will have achieved the minimum of a Grade B in Chemistry or a Grade BB in Science (Double Award).  Grade B in Mathematics would be an advantage. 

The course is often delivered in an interactive lecture style with the theory supported by the hands-on practical work essential to both the understanding of principles and the development of necessary laboratory skills. The teaching of each group is shared between two members of the Chemistry staff, all of whom are available to provide support and assistance to all students within the department. 

We have two specialist laboratories which are well-equipped to deliver the requirements of the AS and A Level specifications and are serviced by a full-time technician.  In addition, students have ready access to a well-resourced Chemistry section in the School Library as well as to a smaller one within the department.  Numerous Chemistry CD-ROMS are available, as is access to the Internet and Chemistry software on the school’s computer networks. 

Each student is issued with a CD-ROM at the beginning of the year. This CD-ROM contains notes, revision guides, worksheets that cover the entire course, all past papers & mark scheme from 2002 onwards. It is fully hyperlinked and forms the backbone of materials provided. Here is a screenshot.  

An Advanced Level qualification in Chemistry provides entry to careers which include medicine and related disciplines, polymer chemistry, forensic science and chemical engineering.  Moreover, the investigative and problem-solving nature of A Level Chemistry opens the doors to careers other than those of a purely scientific nature, such as philosophy and law. 

We look forward to welcoming you.