Chemistry

Lessons take place in our three specialist Chemistry labs, which are well resourced with modern, innovative equipment, including a fume cupboard in each lab, allowing the girls to learn how to handle hazardous materials in a safe manner. We make extensive use of molecular modelling kits to enable us to visualise how matter interacts on an atomic level.

During Year 7, chemistry is studied alongside biology and physics with a single teacher as part of a general, skills-based study of science. We teach chemistry as a separate science from Year 8.

Chemistry is a challenging and deeply enjoyable subject and we are keen to inspire a love of the subject from the beginning of their time in the Senior School. In Year 8 we teach the fundamental ideas and practical techniques underpinning the subject. We begin to teach the Edexcel IGCSE syllabus during Year 9, in order to allow more time for more varied activities and deeper investigations into the topics at hand. Relevant chemistry, including plastics and the environmental impact of fossil fuels, is covered. We even make sustainable plastic from potatoes and biodiesel from cooking oil!

The girls are given opportunities to explore chemistry further by attending a range of clubs and societies. These include the Key Stage 3 Science Club, where the principles of the subject are investigated at an in-depth level.

Classroom-based teaching is supported by a range of trips throughout the year. For example, in Year 10 the girls take part in the annual Science Live Conference, where they listen to world-class speakers such as Professor Alice Roberts and Dr Andrea Sella, as well as gaining valuable exam tips from a GCSE Chief Examiner. KS3 students are given the opportunity to attend the Salter’s Festival of Chemistry at a local University.