Chemistry
A Level Chemistry
Staff within the Department
Mrs Ferchichi - Head of Chemistry
B.Sc. (Hons) Chemistry, P.G.C.E. (Secondary) Science/Chemistry
Mrs Patel - Head of Science
B.Sc. (Hons) Biochemistry, P.G.C.E. (Secondary) Science/Chemistry
Dr D O’Flynn – Teacher of Chemistry
B.Sc. (Hons) Medicinal Chemistry, PhD. Organic Chemistry, P.G.C.E. (Secondary) Science/Chemistry
Chemistry is the study of matter, its properties, how and why substances combine or separate to form other substances, and how substances interact with energy. Many people think of chemists as being white-coated scientists mixing strange liquids in a laboratory, but the truth is we are all chemists. Chemistry is part of everything in our lives.
Chemistry is involved in everything we do, from growing and cooking food to cleaning our homes and bodies to launching a space shuttle. Chemistry is one of the physical sciences that help us to describe and explain our world.
Chemical research has led to the discovery and development of new and improved synthetic fibres, paints, adhesives, drugs, cosmetics, electronic components, lubricants, and thousands of other products. Chemistry spurs advances in medicine, agriculture, forensic science, food processing and other fields.
To study Chemistry, you need to be both dedicated and interested in the subject.
Strong organisational, research and time management skills are also essential.
Chemistry is a practical subject hence good practical skills are useful and you will develop these throughout the course. A level Chemistry is a challenging, though fascinating, subject. To excel in Chemistry, you need to have strong literacy and numeracy skills. Chemistry will help you to develop research, problem solving and analytical skills. It will help to you challenge ideas and show how you to work out problems through logic and step-by-step reasoning.
We follow the AQA specification.
AS Chemistry, 7404 and A-level Chemistry, 7405
Link: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level/chemistry-7404-7405
Course outline:
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| Autumn Term | Spring Term | Summer Term |
| Year 12 |
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| Year 13 |
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Activities to do at home
We recommend the following websites to Chemistry students.
- Catalyst, a science magazine for students aged 14-19
- Resources for students collated by Royal Society of Chemistry
- ChemNet society for students of Chemistry
- New Scientist
- The Periodic Table videos from the University of Nottingham
- Animations of organic reactions mechanisms
- A level chemistry Chemguide notes
- AS/A level resources from Knockhardy Publishing
Enrichment Activities and Trips
| Royal Society of Chemistry competitions |
| Spectroscopy in a suitcase |
| Lectures at the Royal Institute |
Career Paths
Chemistry is an important subject for careers in: medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, environmental science, engineering, toxicology, developing consumer products, metallurgy (studying how metals behave), space exploration, developing perfumes and cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, energy, teaching, science writing, software development and research.
Applied Chemistry and Biochemistry are amongst the fastest growing areas of Applied Science with Pharmaceutical companies in particular being major contributors to the U.K. economy.
There are also many new exciting careers based on the Environmental Sciences such as pollution control, toxic waste treatment and the development of improved methods of food production. Established chemical companies such as BP, Glaxo and ICI employ large numbers of chemistry graduates and post- graduates for research and management posts.
In addition, A Level Chemistry provides you with analytical skills which are valued in many careers such as law and accountancy.
| Medicine | Chemical research | Engineering | Biochemical research |
| Dentistry | Metallurgy | Environmental health | Pharmacy
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| Forensic Science | Veterinary science | Food Technology | Teaching |
| Conservation | Dietetics | Science Communication | Manufacturing |
| Art Restoration | Palaeontology | Petrochemicals | Pharmaceuticals
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