Chemistry
An appreciation of the world is hardly possible without a working knowledge of the nature and behaviour of the many materials of which it is made. The aim of the course is to stimulate and sustain interest in chemistry, to develop practical skills and to encourage students to work logically and systematically so they can draw sound conclusions from experimental results.
Year 12
In Year 12 students study core units in physical, organic and inorganic chemistry. Physical chemistry topics include atomic structure, bonding and reaction profiles. Organic chemistry introduces nomenclature and reaction mechanisms, while inorganic chemistry explores classification and periodicity.
The course emphasises both secure subject knowledge and the development of transferable skills such as logical thinking, problem-solving and careful practical technique.
Year 13
In Year 13 students build on this foundation through further organic chemistry, including complex reaction mechanisms and aromatic chemistry, further inorganic chemistry covering complex ions and transition metals, and further physical chemistry such as bond enthalpy and acid–base reactions.
The A Level is assessed in the summer of Year 13 by AQA.
Assessment Components
Paper 1
Paper 2
Paper 3
Assessment is completed at the end of Year 13 through three written examinations, testing understanding of physical, organic and inorganic chemistry, alongside the ability to apply concepts and interpret experimental data.
Opportunities
An A Level in Chemistry is highly desirable for the study of medicine, pharmacy, biochemistry and genetics. Students who study Chemistry also progress into lucrative and interesting careers in fields such as food science, ecology, agriculture, wine production, materials science and the cosmetics industry.
Many professionals in law, finance, accountancy, economics and related fields also take science A Levels, including Chemistry, before specialising at degree level.
Entrance Requirements
Essential Grade 66 in combined science, grade 6 in Chemistry, 6 in English, 6 in maths
Desirable Grade 7 in Chemistry
Chemistry (A-Level)
The course develops an understanding of the nature and behaviour of materials, practical skills and the ability to work logically and systematically when interpreting experimental results.
Year 12
Students study physical chemistry topics such as atomic structure, bonding and reaction profiles, organic chemistry including nomenclature and reaction mechanisms, and inorganic chemistry focusing on classification and periodicity.
Year 13
Students move on to further organic chemistry, including complex reaction mechanisms and aromatic chemistry, further inorganic chemistry covering complex ions and transition metals, and further physical chemistry such as bond enthalpy and acid–base reactions.
Assessment Components
Paper 1: 2 hours, 105 marks (35%).
Paper 2: 2 hours, 105 marks (35%).
Paper 3: 2 hours, 90 marks (30%).
Assessment rewards secure understanding of physical, organic and inorganic chemistry and the ability to interpret and evaluate experimental evidence.
Opportunities
Chemistry supports progression into medicine, pharmacy, biochemistry, genetics and industries including food, ecology, agriculture, materials and cosmetics, as well as careers in law, finance and economics.
Entrance Requirements
Essential: Grade 66 in Combined Science or Grade 6 in Chemistry, plus Grade 6 in English and Grade 6 in Maths.
Desirable: Grade 7 in Chemistry.