Course information
Chemistry
Harris City Academy Crystal Palace - Croydon
02087712261
Maberley Road, Upper Norwood, London, SE19 2JH
Course summary

The principles of Chemistry underpin our understanding of the world around us and are relevant to all areas of science, from the chemical processes in living organisms to the formation of stars millions of miles away. We study Chemistry in order to understand the nature of substances: their composition, behaviour, and physical and chemical properties. Chemistry allows us to identify unknown substances, monitor concentrations and synthesise new chemicals. Above all, chemistry is about finding solutions to the problems that concern us and our surroundings. As well as the inherent charm of the subject, there are practical reasons to study Chemistry: it is invaluable in conjunction with other sciences and/or maths in order to study Science or Medicine at university. It is also possible to study it as a lone science alongside arts courses although it will not then offer a route to the study of Science at university. The core concepts introduced in Chemistry A-level form an important part of any professional scientist’s toolkit, regardless of their specialisation. Chemistry graduates possess adaptability and an analytical cast of mind which makes them attractive to a very broad spectrum of employers. About one in three Chemistry graduates will continue with their academic studies and aim for higher degrees such as a PhD. For the study of Chemistry at university, it should be combined at A-level with Mathematics and Physics. Students wishing to read medical, veterinary or pharmacological sciences, or chemical engineering at university must take A-level Chemistry. Many other courses in engineering and materials science also welcome the subject. Increasingly scientists are finding themselves working in fields which involve all of the scientific disciplines. The expanding field of Biochemistry makes the combination with Biology an attractive one. Chemistry A-level is both conceptually challenging and requires good factual knowledge. While the need for the memorisation of factual chemistry remains important, much greater emphasis is placed on the understanding of the principles underlying the material and in relating this to laboratory experience. Students will study a two-year course in A level Chemistry which is terminally assessed in the summer term of the second year. At Harris Westminster, the Chemistry syllabus follows the AQA exam board.

Entry requirements

• A minimum of seven grade 5s in full course GCSE subjects. No vocational subjects allowed. • English Language grade 5 and Math grade 6 • Must attain an overall grade 6 in Chemistry if doing separate sciences or a 6/6 in the Trilogy exam. • Extended writing subject.

How you'll be assessed

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionLondon
Local AuthorityCroydon
Ofsted RatingOutstanding
Gender TypeMixed
AddressMaberley Road, Upper Norwood, London, SE19 2JH