Subject Overview
Everything you see, touch, taste, or smell, involves Chemistry in some way. Chemists will be responsible for solving many global problems – finding alternatives to plastics, making more efficient batteries, developing innovative medicines and tackling climate change.
In the Chemistry department we aim to encourage independent thinking whilst gaining knowledge and understanding of the theory and application of fundamental chemical ideas. The curriculum is planned to allow these ideas to develop over Years 7-13.
The study of Chemistry develops intellectual and practical skills. It will allow students to develop as independent thinkers with sharp problem-solving skills. This in turn provides a firm foundation for those progressing to a wide range of courses in higher education and ultimately, exceptional preparation for a large number of careers including Chemical Engineering, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Pharmacy, Law, Dentistry, Environmental Health, Commerce and many more far beyond the obvious careers of Research and Industry.
We encourage students of all year groups to take part in the many challenges and competitions we offer and we have a history of success. This includes the Chemistry Olympiad, Top of the Bench (national finalists), the Youth STEMM award, Salters’ Festivals of Chemistry and the Schools’ Analyst competition.
Programme of Study
Key Stage 3:
Year 7
- Mixing, dissolving and separating
- Elements, Compounds and Reactions
Year 8
- Explaining Physical Changes
- Explaining Chemical Changes
Year 9
- Obtaining Useful Materials
- Using our Earth Sustainably
Key Stage 4:
GCSE Chemistry
Examination Board: AQA
A GCSE in Chemistry offers an introduction to the fundamental ideas of Chemistry. Through a sequence of topics, each of the three strands of Chemistry, Inorganic, Organic and Physical chemistry are explored. The core chemical ideas of structure, bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics and thermodynamics are all introduced alongside examples of their application.
The aims of this qualification are to enable students to develop:
- Knowledge of the core principles of chemistry
- Data analysis skills
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- An ability to question and discuss science-based issues that affect their lives
A Level Chemistry
Examination Board: Edexcel
A level chemistry students will learn a variety of topics drawn across the three main areas of Chemistry: Inorganic, Organic and Physical. Students will learn how atomic and electronic structure underpins all chemistry, how pharmaceuticals can be made from simple organic molecules and how reaction conditions are manipulated to get the maximum amount of product in the shortest time.
The aims of this qualification are to enable students to develop:
- Essential knowledge and understanding of core concepts and their links to each other.
- Practical skills and competencies to master a range of techniques including: titration, electrochemistry, analytical methods, organic synthesis and kinetics experiments.
- Problem solving skills and the application of mathematical reasoning.
- How to use patterns in chemical phenomena to make predictions about chemical reactions and properties.
- A deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods
- Interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject
- An understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.
