Chemistry

Why choose Chemistry?

Chemistry is a demanding, yet rewarding A Level course, taught by three subject specialists in purpose-built laboratories. An A Level in Chemistry is virtually essential for studying Medicine and many other science related courses at university, such as Chemical Engineering and Biochemistry. As Chemistry is considered one of the most difficult A levels, universities look favourably at this subject even if it is for unrelated courses such as Law or Economics.

What does the course entail?

The Chemistry A Level course revolves around the three traditional elements – Physical Chemistry (including atomic structure, kinetics and thermodynamics), Inorganic Chemistry (including group chemistry and transition metals) and Organic Chemistry (including mechanisms, synthesis and analysis).

There will be an internal exam at the end of the first year, the result of which will be used to support UCAS grade predictions. The A Level itself is examined in three exams at the end of the second year and practical skills will be assessed over the course of the two years.

Types of learning

Having a keen interest and an active curiosity for the subject is a prerequisite for studying Chemistry at A Level. The theory side of the course is complemented by extensive practical work which serves to not only illustrate many aspects of the theory, but also allows a pass for laboratory skills to be achieved in addition to the traditional A Level grade. Although not compulsory, top universities will be looking for this pass when making offers. Effective performance at A Level will require reading and study beyond the specification and the department strongly encourages this higher-level thinking and has shown successful stretch and challenge over the years.

Enrichment opportunities within Chemistry

The department provides enrichment and extra-curricular activities to enhance the work done in class and to enable students to demonstrate the independence of thought required to access demanding courses at top universities. During the first year, the top three chemists will be selected to represent the school in the Young Analyst Competition. At the end of the first year, every student is given the opportunity to take part in the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge (C3L6) and during their second year, they will have a chance to prepare for and be entered for the first round of the international Chemistry Olympiad. Links with local universities are well established and during the course there is often the opportunity to visit Liverpool University and take part in some advanced practical activities. The minimum entrance requirement is a 7 at GCSE Chemistry (or Combined Science equivalent).