Chemistry
Chemistry
SPARKING CURIOUSITY
Girls are exposed to the amazing variety of substances that make up our world in Chemistry classes. They appreciate why they are the way they are, why they behave as they do and how they can be adapted and exploited in modern life.
Girls will explore a body of chemical theories and facts, which enable them to identify patterns and themes fundamental to chemistry. The subject puts emphasis on the importance of the scientific method, helping girls to design, carry out and evaluate experiments. Through this, pupils develop chemical knowledge, skills and understanding that teaches them to problem-solve in a wider context.
At the same time, they develop virtues of scholarship, a love of independent thinking, problem-solving and creativity. In addition, girls will develop an appreciation for how Chemistry has a social, industrial, technological, environmental and economic consequence for the world around them.
CHEMISTRY IN PRACTICE
Chemistry is taught in seven dedicated laboratories, giving students regular opportunities to explore ideas through practical work. All year groups are taught by subject specialists, ensuring depth of knowledge and a consistent approach across the department.
A wide co-curricular programme supports learning beyond the classroom. This includes Harry Potter Potions Club for LC students, Chemistry Challenge and Alchemy Club for UC, and Chemistry and Biochemistry Clubs for SFC.
Students also take part in visits to university departments and industrial settings, alongside a range of in-house, regional and national competitions. These include the RSC Chemistry Olympiad, C3L6 Cambridge Chemistry Challenge, The Chemistry Race, Top of the Bench and the CLC Olympiad.
The chemists are a strange class of mortals, impelled by an almost maniacal impulse to seek their pleasures amongst smoke and vapour, soot and flames, poisons and poverty - yet amongst all these evils I seem to live so sweetly that I would rather die than change places with the King of Persia.
Becher, Physica Subterranea
Pupils are introduced to the foundations of Chemistry and explore ideas that simply spark curiosity for the subject. This is complemented by a comprehensive practical programme allowing pupils to develop investigative skills and to enjoy some ‘hands on science’.
The Edexcel GCSE syllabus is followed.
SFC girls can opt to take either Higher or Standard Level Chemistry as part of the IB Diploma, or girls follow the Edexcel syllabus for A Level. At A Level, all students are expected to achieve the practical endorsement, as practical skills lie at the heart of studying Chemistry at College.
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