COURSE CODE: AQA Chemistry A Level - 7405 TYPICAL
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: 2 × 6s from GCSE higher Science papers (including Chemistry) and a 6 in GCSE Maths
CAREER POSSIBILITIES
Chemistry is a highly valuable and versatile qualification because, like all sciences, it develops essential skills such as planning, evidence gathering, analysis, and critical thinking. In addition to obvious career paths like Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, and Pharmaceuticals, chemistry is also regarded favourably for a wide range of nonscience careers and higher education courses, including Law, Computing, Accountancy, Teaching, and Sports Science
THE PROGRAMME
In Year 12, chemistry students will study Atomic Structure, Bonding, Energetics, Kinetics, Chemical Equilibria, Redox Reactions and Equations, followed by topics such as Periodicity, Groups 2 and 7 Elements, Alkanes, Halogenoalkanes, Alkenes, Alcohols and Organic Analysis. In Year 13, students will progress to Thermodynamics, Rate Equations and Equilibrium Constants, and learn about Electrode Potentials and Electrochemical cells, Acids and Bases, Period 3 Elements and their Oxides, Transition Metals, Reactions in Aqueous Solutions, Optical Isomerism, Aldehydes and Ketones, Carboxylic Acids, Aromatic Chemistry, Amines, Polymers, Amino Acids, Proteins and DNA, Organic Synthesis, NMR Spectroscopy and Chromatography. Sixth form lessons will include demonstrations, practical work, lectures, handouts, ICT work and one-to-one support, with students expected to take greater responsibility for organisation and independent learning. Key skills include managing workload, note-taking, reading around the subject and self-motivation. At A2, there are three exam papers covering the full syllabus, with question styles ranging from multiple choice to structured and essay-style questions. Practical skills are assessed separately and reported as Pass/Fail under the Practical Endorsement, and these skills will also be assessed in written papers.
WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?
Chemistry is a fascinating and essential science that shapes almost every aspect of our lives. Often called the “central science,” it connects disciplines such as biology, physics, geology, and environmental science, making it a cornerstone of scientific understanding. Chemistry helps meet fundamental human needs—food, clothing, shelter, health, energy, and clean air and water—while driving innovations that improve our quality of life. From developing new medicines and sustainable materials to solving global challenges in energy and the environment, chemistry provides practical solutions for the real world. Studying chemistry equips you with knowledge and skills that are vital for progress and prepares you to make a meaningful impact on society.
Please note: This course will run subject to sufficient student numbers. Final decisions on course availability will be made based on demand and timetabling feasibility.
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