Chemistry is the study of matter, its properties, how and why substances combine or separate to form other substances, and how substances interact with energy.  Many people think of chemists as being white-coated scientists mixing strange liquids in a laboratory, but the truth is we are all chemists.

Doctors, nurses and veterinarians must study chemistry, but understanding basic chemistry concepts is important for almost every profession.  Chemistry is part of everything in our lives.

Chemistry is found everywhere.  All matter is made up of atoms, molecules and ions; simple structures and giant structures.  Chemical principles underpin the physical environment in which we live.  Chemistry is part of time and history and directs us to a future.  From the atomic, molecular, supramolecular and nanotechnological to the macroscopic state, it explains processes deep within the earth, in the oceans, on land, in industry, within our bodies, in the atmosphere, in space and beyond.  It is the key to the development and uses of materials and resources of the future and a powerful pointer to, and creator of, environmental change and a better and healthier world.

Chemistry is also involved in everything we do, from growing and cooking food to cleaning our homes and bodies to launching a space shuttle.  Chemistry has the power to explain innumerable phenomena in the world, from the ordinary to the bizarre.  Why does iron rust?  What makes propane such an efficient, clean-burning fuel?  How can soot and diamond be so different in appearance yet so chemically similar?  Chemistry has the answers to these questions and many more.  Understanding chemistry is the key to understanding the world as we know it.  As one of the natural sciences,

Chemistry is also one of the physical sciences that help us to describe and explain our world. Chemistry is called “the central science,” as it bridges Physics with other natural sciences, such as Geology and Biology.

Please have a look at these short YouTube videos they really do capture the passion, the interest, the great relevance that studying chemistry has.

https://youtu.be/izeuGr0lbN0

https://youtu.be/1mn9xGScqcI

https://youtu.be/k_34JsCUrYA

Facilities Available

Impressive facilities within the Chemistry Department provide for excellent and comfortable environments in which pupils can investigate, discover, learn and be taught about the wonders and application of chemistry to the highest of standards.

Teaching and learning takes place in two dedicated and beautifully designed, state-of-the-art, fully networked and excellently resourced chemistry laboratories as well as in other multi-science laboratories. Laboratories are equipped with digital projection, networked computing and Wi-Fi facilities and have access to the latest state-of-the-art animation and simulation software, web-platform resources and Bluetooth data logging capability. Provision for different furniture layouts in these airy and light rooms that are also equipped for mobile fume cupboard extraction and contain a wealth of general and specialised items of apparatus and equipment as well as modelling resources, enables staff and pupils to enjoy varied teaching and learning styles and activities as well as flexible practical work arrangements. Practical and investigative work is supported by a centrally located, purpose built Preparation Room and additional specialist store room, which accommodates chemical and material storage. Colourful and engaging corridor displays also enhance pupil interest and engagement. A comprehensively equipped Staff Resources and Work Room with small group tutorial capability and with networked reprographic provision is located next to the Preparation Room. With excellent teaching and technical support staff, the Chemistry Department provides an outstanding learning experience.

Examination Boards

  • Edexcel GCSE: Chemistry (1CH0)
  • Edexcel A Level Chemistry (9CH0)
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) and the International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (CP) with courses at both higher and standard levels in Chemistry

Co-curricular Activities

  • Chemistry context themed special events
  • Warminster Science Fortnight
  • Visiting speakers
  • Curriculum enrichment activities
  • Bridging projects and outreach programmes with feeder schools
  • STEM club
  • Weird Science Club
  • Kitchen Chemistry
  • Cross-curricular teaching topics
  • Educational trips and academic conferences
  • CSI and Forensic Science investigations and competitions
  • Chemistry clinics and examination support workshops