Chemistry at Tormead
Chemistry GCSE and Lower School Focus
Chemistry starts with studying the world around us at a particle level, but it has a global impact in finding solutions which improve human health, preserve energy and natural resources, and help to combat climate change. Studying Chemistry is a rewarding academic pursuit and we are committed to enabling a deep understanding of the principles of the science and to showing their application in the real world.
Practical sessions form a large part of our teaching at all levels and girls gain a wide range of transferable skills, from team-working to practical problem-solving. Analysis of results and information, and combining concepts from across the syllabus, are key activities and, at a higher level, these mental practices form an excellent springboard for a range of careers and further study. We encourage girls to get involved in competitions and challenges throughout their school career, but also to maintain their sense of wonder when asking questions of the world around them.
- Lower School
The curriculum is designed to give all pupils confidence in the laboratory and demonstrate a range of investigative skills, acknowledging that they will have experienced different levels of taught Science in their previous schools. In Year 7, we start with ‘What is Chemistry?’, emphasising the importance of chemical safety and working safely in a laboratory. Topics studied include ‘Why does ice cream freeze?’ and ‘Can you survive on a desert island?’ In the summer term, the pupils carry out a science based project. As they move into Year 8, pupils continue to build on and extend their scientific knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that they are well equipped to begin studying the iGCSE Chemistry in Year 9.
- Edexcel IGCSE
From Year 9 onwards, pupils study the Edexcel IGCSE (9-1) in Chemistry. This gives a thorough and excellent grounding in the key areas of Chemistry. The study of Organic Chemistry encompasses crude oil and hydrocarbons, as well as extending into the chemistry of carboxylic acids and alcohols. Physical Chemistry takes in a range of topics and is underpinned by the correct application of mathematics to chemical problems; key areas of study include energetics, kinetics, equilibria and electrochemistry. In the sphere of Inorganic Chemistry, chemical groups are investigated practically and the development and application of the periodic table is thoroughly embedded. Lessons are delivered by subject specialists who regularly extend learning into the sphere of higher level study. Analysis and problem-solving is emphasised and this has wide-ranging benefits across the curriculum. Practical activities form the cornerstone of the course and many concepts are elucidated through laboratory activities. Girls graduate from the course with excellent practical skills and a thorough knowledge of investigative technique. The course forms an excellent preparation for A Level study of Chemistry. Most A Level topics are introduced during the IGCSE and the level of difficulty can be differentiated to allow all learners to progress.
- EnrichmentWe participate in a range of activities and competitions throughout the year. Year 11 and Lower Sixth students compete in the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge, a prestigious national competition awarding medals to the most talented. In both the Lower and Upper Sixth, students pit their wits against the RSC Chemistry Olympiad.For our Lower School pupils we run ChemSoc, which offers Tormeadians the chance to carry out many enjoyable experiments throughout the academic year.
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11-16 Years
Our pupils enjoy exceptional educational opportunities within a caring and happy environment.
