Chemistry is part of the Science department at The Leys, based within the Thomson Building at the heart of the School.
Chemistry is a subject that is fun for pupils and teachers alike, with exam success enjoyed by both. Pupils learn to enjoy using Chemistry and to tackle applications with confidence and a sense of achievement.
Pupils develop an understanding of Chemistry principles and facts, their significance and an ability to communicate what they know and understand. They also develop safe, practical skills in the use of Chemistry and learn to apply these to the solving of relevant and worthwhile problems, through imaginative and creative scientific thinking, group work and co-operation. Pupils understand the capabilities and limitations of Chemistry and the economic and social implications and consequences of its use.
Through our work we emphasise the inter-relationship with the other sciences and the important role of Chemistry as the core science, thus preparing pupils for their future where totally new models of lifestyles will exist.
From September 2024 new Year 9 pupils will follow the Edexcel International GCSE specification with first examinations in Summer 2027.
The IGCSE specification provides a thorough grounding in all key areas of fundamental chemistry and is an excellent preparation for further studies at A Level. In Year 9 pupils will study Separating Techniques, Atomic Structure, Ionic, Covalent and Metallic Bonding and Periodic Table.
In Year 11 the subject is examined with two written papers covering all aspects of the specification and assess understanding of the eight required practical techniques.
From September 2024 Year 10 and 11 pupils will continue to follow the AQA GCSE Specification. The final two years of the course covers a range of physical, inorganic, and organic chemistry topics. The specification is examined in Year 11 in two 100 min written papers covering all aspects of the specification.
Chemistry is a subject with a high tech future. These days not all chemists wear white coats as their careers are too varied. You are just as likely to find chemists deep-sea diving; on an oil-rig; developing new drugs and agrochemicals; measuring the rate of reactions; probing structures using computers; finding new synthetic routes; or using sophisticated electronics to analyse pollutant levels as you are to find them in a laboratory.
Chemistry is, of course, the study of the enormous variety of materials of which the earth consists, and the changes that they undergo when reacted. If you choose to study Chemistry at The Leys it is our aim to help you succeed in your chosen course by mastering the principles that govern chemical reactions and, through them, to develop your interest in chemistry by stimulating your curiosity.
To gain the A level three papers (two hours each) will be taken at the end of Upper Sixth. These will cover work from the whole course. Paper 1 will cover inorganic and physical chemistry, paper 2 organic and physical chemistry and paper 3 will focus on practical techniques. During the course a significant number of practicals will be carried out in order to teach the necessary skills and these will be recorded in a lab book. The final certificate will state whether a pupil is competent in practical skills.
A Leys Education is one which is built firmly on three main foundations; Academic, Pastoral and Wider Curriculum.
More informationAn overview of the curriculum taught at The Leys.
More informationWe are fortunate at The Leys to have a thriving and diverse Academic Enrichment programme which is growing and developing all the time.
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