Chemistry Curriculum

Set size is limited to a maximum of 20 pupils in the junior school and 14 pupils in the sixth form. Setting is carried out according to ability and performance, and is continually reviewed.

I and II Forms

Students follow a general science course covering all of the three main disciplines. The pupils are introduced to the science lab, matters of safety, followed by a broad-based course where they will learn the rudiments of plants, animals, substances, energy, etc.

III Form

Their first bite at pure Chemistry. The topic areas covered include the study of elements, compounds and mixtures, diffusion, the atmosphere, simple chemical reactions, acids and bases.

IV Form

In this year we lay down the foundation units upon which the GCSE course in Chemistry is based. They are given more responsibility and are asked to think for themselves to a greater degree. The study of Chemistry is compulsory at GCSE so there is every incentive to do well in this year.

Shell and V Form

This is the GCSE course followed by all students. The syllabus used is the OCR Gateway Science Suite. All staff are trained Chemists and can apply their expertise to maximise pupil understanding. With a huge range of abilities present the use of setting and differentiated material is very important, providing an effective learning environment for all.

Final decisions as to which particular entry level (Higher or Foundation) is most appropriate are taken after the mock examination, held at the start of the Lent term in V Form (although a degree of flexibility is shown).

The students also complete a series of assessed experiments throughout the two year course. This mark (internally awarded) is combined with that of a 'Science in the News' task. Here, pupils examine and assess data and information as it is presented to the public. This total mark is worth 33% of the final GCSE grade.

This year the Shell year group will be starting the Edexcel IGCSE syllabus (4335). This is also tiered (Higher or Foundation) and contains a coursework element worth 20% of the final mark.