Chemistry

You will build a detailed understanding of three core areas of chemistry — Physical, Inorganic, and Organic Chemistry.

In Physical Chemistry, you will explore atomic structure, bonding, energetics, kinetics, and equilibria, learning how matter behaves at both a microscopic and molecular level.

In Inorganic Chemistry, you will study the periodic table in depth, looking at elements and compounds, redox reactions, and the chemistry of transition metals.

In Organic Chemistry, you will investigate the structure and reactions of carbon-based compounds, synthesis, spectroscopy, and mechanisms that explain chemical behaviour.

Practical work is central throughout, and you’ll complete twelve required experiments that develop your technical precision and analytical skills. You’ll learn to collect, interpret, and evaluate data with scientific accuracy.

A Level Chemistry is highly regarded by universities and employers because of its academic rigour and transferable skills. Many students go on to study Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Chemical Engineering, or Environmental Science at university.

Career routes include becoming a doctor, research scientist, pharmacist, materials chemist, chemical engineer, environmental consultant, or forensic analyst. Chemistry also develops key skills in problem-solving, numeracy, and independent thinking that are valued across all sectors.

This course follows the AQA 7405 specification. Assessment is through three written examinations at the end of Year 13.

Paper 1 covers Physical and Inorganic Chemistry, and Paper 2 focuses on Physical and Organic Chemistry — each worth 35 per cent of the qualification. Paper 3 is a comprehensive paper that assesses practical skills, data analysis, and synoptic understanding, worth 30 per cent.

Alongside these, students must complete the AQA Practical Endorsement, a separate certification recognising competence in laboratory techniques and scientific reporting.