Chemistry

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The Curriculum

Our Chemistry curriculum, aligned with the UK National Curriculum, aims to cultivate a profound understanding of the principles governing the composition and behaviour of matter. Rooted in scientific enquiry and practical exploration, our intent is to equip students with essential knowledge and skills for a lifelong appreciation of chemistry.

The curriculum spans key areas:

  • Atomic structure and the periodic table
  • Bonding, structure, and the properties of matter
  • Quantitative chemistry and chemical analysis
  • Chemical changes
  • Energy changes
  • Rates of reaction and chemical equilibrium
  • Organic chemistry
  • Chemical analysis
  • The chemistry of the atmosphere
  • Using Resources

Through engaging lessons and hands-on experiments, our goal is to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and a keen awareness of the impact of chemistry on the world. By emphasising real-world applications and ethical considerations, we aspire to inspire the next generation of innovative thinkers and responsible contributors to the scientific community.

 

Key Stage 5

Course Code: A Level Chemistry OCR H432
Exam Board Specification: OCR A https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/chemistry-a-h032-h432-from-2015/

 

WHY CHEMISTRY? 

This exciting course attempts to answer the big question “What is the world made of?” and in the search for this answer you will be investigating how one substance can be changed drastically into another, through to researching a new wonder drug to save millions of lives. 

The course covers a broad range of topics within Physical, Inorganic and Organic chemistry including atomic structures, thermodynamics, periodicity, transition metals, alkanes and DNA. Practicals include measuring energy changes, identifying different compounds, preparing organic solids and liquids and undertaking advanced chromatography. 

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 

  • Grade 6 GCSE Chemistry or Grade 6-6 GCSE Combined Science 
  • Grade 6 GCSE English and Mathematics 
  • Students who have studied Combined Science must complete additional preparatory work over the summer holidays. 

ASSESSMENT 

  • 37% – Paper 1: Periodic table, elements and physical chemistry 
  • 37% – Paper 2: Synthesis and analytical techniques 
  • 26% – Paper 3: Unified Chemistry 
  • Practical endorsement assessed during lessons (pass/fail). 

EXTRA AND SUPER CURRICULAR 

  • Attend a scientific conference. 
  • Trip to University of Bath. 
  • Support lower school students and run STEM/Science club activities. 

FUTURE PATHWAYS 

University degrees, apprenticeships and careers in Engineering, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Personnel, Pharmaceuticals, Toxicology, Biomedical Chemistry, Teaching, Lab Work and even Politics! 

COMPLEMENTARY A LEVELS 

Biology, Maths, Physics, Psychology, Core Maths. 

 

Key Stage 5 Chemistry Curriculum Map