'Chemistry is an increasingly popular subject. Standards are now above those nationally at both AS and A level. Students achieve well in relation to their prior attainment in chemistry because of the good teaching they receive and their excellent attitudes to their learning. Teaching is good and students learn well.'

Department description: The chemistry courses offered give an important insight into the applications of the skills learned, with great emphasis placed on the practical derivation of theoretical work done.

In the lower school, Chemistry is studied in conjunction with Biology and Physics as part of the Key Stage 3 Science curriculum. The department offers Year 7 and 8 pupils the opportunity to receive science mentoring from high achieving Year 12 and 13 students.

At GCSE level, we explore laboratory, industrial and socio-political aspects of chemistry. Coursework forms an integral part of GCSEs now, and the staff are experienced and knowledgeable. We achieve impressive results every year.

At A level, the syllabus covers the fundamentals of structures and main group chemistry, before work on organic chemistry and its applications. In Year 13, the ideas learnt at GCSE and AS level are further expanded, and theories on phenomena are used and demonstrated quantitatively.