Chemistry

As with Biology and Physics, Chemistry is studied as part of Science in the Lower, Middle and Upper Fifth forms, and pupils will sit GCSEs in Science, and potentially in Additional Science or all three Science subjects separately, depending on their aptitude. Chemistry can then be selected as a separate subject at AS and A2 Level in the Sixth Form.

Chemistry is concerned with the structure of matter, whether this is the arrangement of atoms, or the complex, three-dimensional organisation of nucleic acids. It is a largely experimental subject, and the practical work is an essential part of the course, although we of course study the theoretical ideas underlying this work. The AS and A2 Level curriculum includes modules for practical skills at both levels, as well as modules covering bonding and reactions, and energy and reactions. There is also a special study module at A2 level; typically, we choose to follow the Biochemistry special study, which incidentally was developed for the syllabus we follow by a former Head of Science at St. Edmund's.

Our aim is to make Chemistry relevant to the modern world through the study of subjects such as the nature of industrial processes and the causes and remedies of pollution. We also study natural resources, in particular their finite nature, a burning issue for contemporary society.