Chemistry
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Chemistry is an indispensable part of human life. The development in the field has a significant role in improving the quality of our life. Chemistry is everywhere, food that we eat, dress the we wear and the medicines that help us to overcome challenging situations.
A-level Chemistry provides a solid foundation for a wide range of careers, including medicine, pharmacy, engineering, and scientific research. Graduates with A-level Chemistry qualifications may also pursue careers in environmental science, chemical manufacturing, or forensic science.
This course is designed to be stimulating, enjoyable and challenging. We want you to develop a passion for the subject and understand its practical relevance. Class time is supported by trips, and workshops and membership to the Royal Society of Chemistry.
In the first year we’ll develop your GCSE understanding and give you a clear foundational introduction to this higher-level study. You’ll learn about physical, inorganic and organic chemistry. You will also undertake a series of practicals to develop your skills and the exam papers will include questions on the theory of practical work and interpretation of both quantitative and qualitative results.
In the second year of the A level course you will take the foundational topics and study them in further depth. Topics will include thermodynamics, transition metals, aromatic chemistry and organic synthesis. You will also have the opportunity to further develop your practical skills and learn how to problem solve and interpret data using spectroscopic methods.
This course will teach you problem solving, teamwork, numeracy, communication and practical skills, as well as hugely valuable independent study and reasoning skills. Our purpose built chemistry laboratory is generously equipped and meticulously maintained providing you with excellent learning experience.
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Course Content
In the first year, students build on their GCSE knowledge and are introduced to the core principles of physical, inorganic and organic chemistry. Topics include atomic structure, bonding, energetics, kinetics, equilibria and basic organic chemistry. Practical work is embedded throughout to develop essential laboratory skills.
In the second year, students study these areas in greater depth. Topics include thermodynamics, transition metals, acids and bases, aromatic chemistry and organic synthesis. Students also learn to interpret complex data using analytical and spectroscopic techniques.
Regular practical investigations develop technical competence and reinforce theoretical understanding.
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Skills Gained
Students develop:
- Advanced practical laboratory skills
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking
- Numerical and data-handling skills
- Logical reasoning and critical evaluation
- Interpretation of quantitative and qualitative data
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Independent study and research skills
These transferable skills are highly valued in both higher education and the workplace. -
Pathways
A Level Chemistry is highly regarded by universities and is essential or desirable for many competitive degree courses, including:
- Medicine and Dentistry
- Pharmacy
- Chemical Engineering
- Biomedical Science
- Forensic Science
- Environmental Science
- Natural Sciences
It also supports progression into careers in healthcare, research, chemical manufacturing, engineering and scientific industries. -
Assessment Method
A Level Chemistry is assessed through three written examinations at the end of the two-year course.
There is no coursework; however, students complete a series of required practical activities throughout the course. Practical knowledge and skills are assessed within the written examinations and contribute to at least 15% of the overall marks. Students also receive a separate practical endorsement based on their laboratory performance.