Chemistry, A Level

Students should ensure that they meet the entry requirements for the courses they are applying for (available on subject pages) as well as the overall entry requirements (5 grades at level 4 or above but must include English and Maths).

Students need to choose a minimum of three subjects to study. Please note that all of our BTEC courses are single BTEC's and equivalent to 1 A Level, you will need to choose two further subjects if choosing a BTEC course.

Please ensure you have put contact details for yourself and a parent should we need to contact you.

Studying A Level Chemistry will give you insight into the physical universe. Chemistry touches every aspect of our lives from the bodily functions within us to the atmosphere around us.

Through the work carried out by leading scientists in this field, we are able to make advances in many areas of life. Whether that’s finding more sustainable way of harnessing energy or making medical advancements.

Chemistry is often referred to as a central science as it combines physics, biology, mathematics and medicine. Through Chemistry we are able to explain biological and physical phenomena that cannot be understood through one science alone.

A Level Chemistry could be the first step through a rewarding academic journey at university and beyond. You could find yourself in a chemistry or biology related degree depending on what you choose to follow. If you’re eager to make sense of the world alongside other brilliant minds, A Level Chemistry is a step in the right direction.

A Level Chemistry will cover the fundamentals of Physical, Organic and Inorganic Chemistry. You’ll cover a range of topics to help you decide where you want your career to go.

By the end of your studies you’ll have gained an understanding of important theories and principles of chemistry. As well as developed your critical thinking and analytical skills.

Physical chemistry: The study of bulk properties of materials and how particles interact with each other this includes the study of atomic structure, chemical bonding, mole calculations, energetic rates, equilibria rates, redox, acids and bases, thermodynamics and electrochemistry.

Inorganic chemistry: The study of all substances excluding most carbon compounds. Inorganic chemistry includes understanding the trends in the Periodic Table, the properties and reactions of group 2 and group 7 elements, the trends in the properties of Period 3 elements and oxides and transition metal chemistry.

Organic chemistry: The study of nearly all carbon compounds, many of which are essential for living systems and medicines. Organic Chemistry is required in numerous careers including pharmacy, chemical engineering, environmental science, medical sciences, health care and food science. It involves studies of halogenoalkanes, aromatic compounds, amino acids, proteins and DNA to chromatography and mass spectroscopy to list a few.

Paper 1, 2 hours, 35%

Paper 2, 2 hours, 35%

Paper 3, 2 hours, 30%

Students need to complete all the required practicals in order to pass the practical endorsement certificate which is required to progress on to some science degrees. No marks are awarded for these practical skills but students are asked questions on the required practicals in their written exams.

• Grade 6 or above in GCSE Maths
• Grade 6 or above in GCSE Chemistry or Grade 6-6 or above in GCSE Combined Science

You need to be predicted and achieve all the grades listed above in order to undertake this subject.

A Level Chemistry allows you to develop your understanding of chemistry by delving deeper into the subject than at GCSE. Through your studies you’ll form independent theories and areas of interest which you could take further at university and beyond.

Because of the broad range of topics you’ll cover you’ll be able to make an informed decision on your trajectory. A Level Chemistry can be the first step in helping you realise your ambitions in achieving an exciting job role. If you continue your journey after A Level Chemistry you could find yourself in a rewarding career such as:

• Analytical, Formulation, Medicinal or Process Chemist
• Biotechnologist
• Chemical Engineer
• Drug Discovery and Chemical Industries
• Environmental, Forensic or Materials Scientist
• Food Technologist
• Geochemical Engineer
• Nanotechnologist
• Pharmacologist
• Science Writer
• Scientific Laboratory Technician
• Teacher
• Toxicologist

These job roles stretch across multiple industries and can have you working on some ground-breaking areas of science and technology.