Chemistry is sometimes described as the central Science and the Chemistry department facilitates students in exploring the subject where they develop scientific knowledge, conceptual understanding and an understanding of the nature, processes and methods of Science. Budding Chemists learn to apply observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and problem-solving skills in the laboratory and real world. Teaching is both theoretical and practical in nature with students particularly enjoying the practical experiments and the satisfaction of solving a challenging problem.

A level Chemistry rapidly builds on GCSE going into greater detail than before by challenging and expanding some of the, simplified, models met to date. Organic Chemistry is handled in a new way and aspects that at GCSE were qualitative in nature get a more rigorous quantitative exploration. Practical work continues to be important with the A level assessing practical competency as well as understanding of the subject. Chemistry A level is rewarding but challenging. It is notorious for being “difficult” but is also, with good reason, generally a requirement for some of the most competitive next steps in Education such as studying medicine.