Understand and gain a deeper insight into fundamental natural processes and begin to see and enjoy the world around us in a whole new way.
Cultivate your knowledge of ourselves and gain insight into how we fit into all material and living things in the Universe.
Develop problem solving and critical thinking skills through linking theory to experimental observations.
Appreciate the huge impact of chemistry on society.
Courses Offered
A Level Chemistry: 7405 (AQA)
Syllabus Breakdown
The A Level course consists of:
Year 1:
Atomic structure; Amount of substance; Bonding, Energetics; Kinetics; Chemical equilibria; Oxidation reduction and redox equations; Periodicity, Group 2; Group 7; Alkanes; Halogenoalkanes; Alkenes; Alcohol; Organic Analysis.
Year 2:
Thermodynamics; Rate equations; Equilibrium Constant; Electrode potentials and electrochemical cells; Acids and Bases; Period 3 elements; Transition metals; Reactions of ions; Optical isomerism; Aldehydes and ketones; Carboxylic acids; Aromatic chemistry; Amines; Polymers; Amino acids; Organic synthesis; NMR
Subject Key Concepts
#1 MATTER #2 REACTIONS #3 ENERGY
#4 QUANTITATIVE #5 INDIVIDUAL, SOCIAL AND SOCIETY
Please click here for Subject Key Concepts.
Minimum Entry Requirements
Students who studied GCSE Combined Science must secure at least a Grade 6 in Combined Science and GCSE Maths.
For students who studied the separate GCSE sciences, they must attain at least a Grade 6 in GCSE Chemistry and GCSE Maths, with at least a Grade 5 in any remaining GCSE Science qualifications.
It is recommended that all students also achieve at least a grade 5 in GCSE English and it is strongly advised this A level is studied in combination with another Science and/or Maths.
Why Study Chemistry?
Ever wondered how aspirin was discovered? Want to understand how the ozone hole can be repaired? How do modern analytical techniques detect drug cheats?
A Level Chemistry can give you the skills and understanding to answer these questions and more. Chemistry has hugely impacted how we live, and chemical ideas affect your everyday life and dictate decisions about the way we live. This course explores how chemistry impacts us by investigating contemporary areas of chemistry such as climate change, green chemistry, pharmaceuticals and chemical research; while still exploring the ‘traditional’ aspects of physical, inorganic and organic chemistry.
Wider Opportunities
In previous years, a number of our students have taken up the opportunity of a week-long laboratory internship, organised by the chemistry department, at the University of Cambridge.
We offer the chance to take part in the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge and The Royal Society of Chemistry Olympiad – a real opportunity to take your understanding to the next level!
In previous years we have organised guest speakers to talk about the impact of their research in areas such as cancer genetics to A-level Chemistry and Biology students.
We also offer our students the opportunity to develop leadership and teaching skills by working on outreach projects with KS3 students and feeder primary schools.
What Our Students Say:
“The skills I have learnt in Chemistry will allow me to become a complete scientist, with the ability to research, evaluate and present my results in a professional way”
“A much more critical approach to thinking.”
“Science A-levels are very highly regarded, even if you plan on doing a non-scientific degree.”
“Far more interesting and in depth...a greater variety of modules.”
What Can I Do Next?
UK Higher Education institutions currently offer over 200 courses where Chemistry is the primary subject and there are 500 additional courses that contain a notable element of Chemistry.
In addition, a number of other courses either specifically require or find it desirable to have a GCE in Chemistry.
These include courses such as chemical engineering, medicine, veterinary medicine, biological sciences, environmental science, pharmacy and dentistry.
