Chemistry Department
Have you ever wondered how a battery generates electricity, how a drug is developed, how a detergent works or how plastics are made? Chemistry supplies the answers to these questions and, indeed, many others like them.
Chemistry is one of the most popular A level subjects in the school with over half of the Sixth Form studying the subject. These students will go on to university to study mostly science related subjects including Engineering, Medicine, Veterinary Science and of course Chemistry itself. The aim of the department is to develop the student to her maximum ability so that she has the confidence and the knowledge to enjoy all aspects of this challenging subject.
Chemistry is an exciting, intriguing, intellectual challenge, providing understanding of our world and how it works. It is a practical science that has impact on our everyday lives, for example in the conservation of natural resources, in food production, in the protection of the environment as well as the improvement of healthcare. Cooking is chemistry. Everything you can touch, taste or smell is a chemical. Studying chemistry helps to enable an understanding of how things work and how to make educated choices about everyday products. The skills taught can be applied to many aspects and situations beyond the subject itself.
Many fields make use of chemistry as well as the ones listed above, including fire fighting, hairdressing, firework manufacturing, catering….. the list is extensive. Chemistry enables us to understand the profound effects, both positive and negative that chemicals have on our lives. Many other subjects such as Biology, Agriculture, Geology and Engineering are linked to Chemistry – indeed it could be said that Chemistry is an essential thread in the fabric of our lives. Studying Chemistry enhances our understanding of matter and how the world works.
Chemistry is included in the curriculum from Year 7, as a separate subject, up to and including the Sixth Form. Please use the links below to find out more.
