Chemistry
Chemistry is what makes the world work. From the materials that make up the electronic components, battery and touch screen in your phone, to the development of new drugs to help in the fight against cancer. Without the study of the matter that makes up the world around us, many of the developments that we have made in society would not have been possible. The study of chemistry is therefore key in developing a new generation of scientists who are ready to tackle the problems that our society may face, such as the growing threat of antibiotic resistant bacteria or the development of cleaner energy resources to help reduce global warming.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
At Key Stage 3, students follow the Activate scheme of work. This scheme is designed to inspire our budding scientists, whilst challenging and supporting them along the way. In Year 7, students learn about the fundamentals of chemistry whilst experimenting with acids and alkalis. In Year 8, students are then introduced to the periodic table before exploring the world of metals and other materials, among other topics. Students will also acquire key practical skills and an extensive specialist vocabulary that is then developed further at Key Stage 4. This is a rigorous scheme of work that prepares students well for their GCSE course in Year 9.
GCSE (Years 10 & 11)
Examination Board: AQA
In Year 9, students study the chemistry content of the AQA science GCSEs. In years 10 and 11, students are placed in two sets. One group prepares for the Chemistry GCSE whist the second group works towards the Combined Science: Trilogy GCSE.
Throughout Key Stage 4, students also design investigations, make measurements, present data, draw conclusion and evaluate limitations attached to scientific evidences. More information on the science GCSEs can be found on the AQA website.
For Year 11, revision sessions are held in the Easter holidays to ensure continued access to help and support during this important period of their education.
Useful Links
"A scientist in their laboratory is not a mere technician: they are also a child confronting natural phenomena that impress them as though they were fairy tales."MARIE CURIE
