Chemistry

Why study this subject? 

Loughborough Grammar School has a team of highly qualified and very experienced A Level teachers. We have outstanding laboratories that are equipped and supported to allow our students to develop their practical skills to a high level. We provide both support for students that are struggling with the subject, and opportunities for students applying for elite courses to achieve the very best grades and add to their UCAS application through competitions and co-curricular activities. 

What is the exam board and route?

A Level Chemistry EDEXCEL 

Subject Entry Requirements: Grade 7 in GCSE Chemistry is advised. Grade 8/9 in Maths is advised for those pursuing Grade A at A Level. 

Subject outline 

A Level Chemistry takes the knowledge and skills gained at GCSE and extends them in both depth and breadth. As with GCSE there is a substantial amount of mathematical content and plenty of practical work. 

How is the course assessed? 

Three papers: 

Paper 1: Advanced Inorganic and Physical Chemistry 1 hour and 45 mins 

Paper 2: Advanced Organic and Physical Chemistry 1 hour and 45 mins 

Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Chemistry 2 hours and 30 mins 

Complementary subjects 

Biology, Geography, Mathematics, PE, Physics, Psychology. Students also take A Level Chemistry to complement Humanities, Arts, Classics and Languages to broaden their skill set. Many gain places at Oxbridge both for Chemistry related disciplines but also other disciplines utilising their Chemistry A Level. 

Possible careers 

Many! A Level Chemistry opens the doors to Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Pharmacy, Forensics, and other related science careers to a multitude of diverse careers such as Finance, Law, Economics. 

Subject enrichment available 

• Competitions: RSC Chemistry Olympiad (Year 13), Cambridge Chemistry Challenge (Year 12), RSC Schools Analyst Practical Competition (Year 12), LGS Chemistry Challenge (Year 12 and 13). 

• Thursday Afternoon Practical Chemistry: an opportunity to carry out extra practical activities that help to further understanding of chemistry, show links to everyday chemistry, or are just too fun not to do. 

• Chemistry Prefects: an opportunity to act as ambassadors for the subject – by presenting at Open Morning, and helping younger students with study sessions and in co-curricular activities. 

• STEM lab visit: a visit to the Loughborough University STEM labs to get some experience in what working in a university lab is like. 

• Synthesis Club: an after school club in the summer term which gives an opportunity to improve organic practical skills and understanding. 
• Oxbridge application and interview preparation.