Why study A level chemistry?
Chemistry is an exciting STEM subject that can lead to many career possibilities and is an essential A level for students wishing to pursue a career in medicine. Many students progress onto university and become doctors, pharmacists, dentists, forensic scientists and engineers.
During the course, you will take part in a wide range of practical activities from monitoring rates of reaction, developing analytical techniques, such as titration and thin layer chromatography to the complete synthesis of aspirin. There is also the chance to be a chemistry ambassador and support students in lower years.
Course type: A level
Board: OCR
Head of department: Mr R Buttinger
Entry requirement: Grade 7 (double) or grade 6 (triple) in GCSE chemistry; grade 7 GCSE maths; five grade 5s at GCSE including English
| Component | Content | Assessment |
| Year 12 | Introduction to foundational concepts in physical, inorganic, and organic chemistry; practical work supports theoretical content | Delivered through teacher-led lessons, lab work, independent research and problem-solving activities |
| Year 13 | Builds on year 12, introducing more complex topics and practical techniques; emphasis on application and analysis across chemistry strands | Three written exams at the end of year 13; practical skills assessed via written papers and endorsement |
| Practical endorsement | Ongoing assessment of 12 required practical activities throughout the two-year course | Reported separately alongside A level grade. Not included in grade weighting |
Topics covered
Year 12
- Development of practical skills in chemistry
- Foundations in chemistry (atomic structure, bonding, formulae, equations)
- Periodic table and energy (group trends, enthalpy, rates)
- Core organic chemistry (alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, haloalkanes, organic synthesis)
Year 13:
- Physical chemistry and transition elements (equilibria, pH, redox, complex ions)
- Organic chemistry and analysis (aromatics, carbonyls, esters, NMR, chromatography)
