Course information
Chemistry
South and City College Birmingham - Birmingham
01216946293
129 Floodgate Street, Birmingham, B5 5SU
Course summary

A Level pathways are designed to prepare you for higher education and beyond, be it a degree, research or a wide range of careers. In year one you will study the AS specification and take exams in May/June. If successful, you will progress to year two and complete the full A-level. The course is divided into a variety of chemical topics, each containing different key concepts in chemistry. Once you have learnt the key features of a particular topic, you go on to consider the applications it has to everyday life. As part of the A Level programme, students will be encouraged to complete a week of work experience. The science department has links with Aston University and Coventry University. We support students applying for Masterclasses at universities, placements and programmes to help students to progress to a university. Previous science students have progressed onto programmes such as Nuffield Science placement and the University of Birmingham Routes to Progressions scheme. We offer A Level exclusive quiet study rooms in addition to the learning zone quiet area. We have access to e-journals, e-books and books. The College also holds activities for British Science Week's ‘Meet the Scientist’ event. We also hold A Level revision workshops and conferences as part of developing study skills. Pass rates in A-level chemistry have been above the national average for the last three years. The study of Chemistry requires the construction of sound foundations through the study of several fundamental concepts in the first year and the early part of the second year. In the remainder of the course, these concepts must coalesce into a coherent whole before moving onto more difficult ideas and their application in the wider world. There will be two papers at the end of the first year and three papers at the end of the years assessing the last two years content. You will also be expected to complete a work placement as part of your programme of study. Study skills and employability skills will be developed with the help of your personal tutor. Chemistry complements other STEM subjects such as biology, physics, psychology, geography, electronics and maths. OCR Chemistry A syllabus is followed. Year 1: • Atoms, compounds and molecules • Acid-base and redox reactions • Periodic table and periodicity • Enthalpy changes and reaction rates • Core organic chemistry • Analytical techniques Year 2: • Further organic chemistry and analysis • pH and buffers • Transition metals • Redox and electrode potentials • Entropy • Free energy 20% of the assessment in A Level Chemistry contains mathematical skills. 15% of assessment on A Level Chemistry will be based on knowledge, skills and understanding of practical skills. You will carry out at least 12 practicals over the two years. Tutors will observe and assess your competencies in practical work to achieve a practical endorsement.

Entry requirements

You will need 5 GCSEs Grades 4 or above, to include two science subjects at Grade 6 or above and maths at Grade 5 or above.

How you'll be assessed

There will be two papers at the end of the first year and three papers at the end of the years assessing the last two years content.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionWest Midlands
Local AuthorityBirmingham
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeMixed
Address129 Floodgate Street, Birmingham, B5 5SU