King Edward VI Shakespeare's School | Stratford-upon-Avon

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Our Chemistry Department aims to ignite curiosity, foster interest, and enhance the enjoyment of chemistry through engaging lessons.

All students undertake Chemistry at GCSE level, and it remains a highly popular choice at A Level. We follow the AQA course at both levels, ensuring the content is relevant to real-world experiences and engaging to learn about. These Chemistry specifications serve as a foundation for future studies, helping students to develop the skills that universities seek.

We believe that chemistry is inherently an experimental subject. Our curriculum offers numerous opportunities to use practical experiences to connect theory with reality, equipping students with essential practical skills. Experimental work is a cornerstone of our approach, helping students deepen their understanding of Chemistry, establish robust laboratory techniques, and cultivate independent investigative and analytical skills.

Our teaching is delivered by specialist staff, supported by a dedicated and knowledgeable technician. Each year, many students continue their Chemistry studies at the university level, including successful entrants to Oxbridge.

Teaching takes place in dedicated laboratories, fully equipped with fume cupboards, allowing a wide range of practical work for students of all ages. Each laboratory is also fitted with up-to-date ICT equipment, including smart boards. The department offers a variety of extra-curricular activities, such as a lunchtime Chemistry Club for Middle School students. run by Sixth Formers, and a Chemistry Society for Years 11-13. Students choose to participate in the RSC Chemistry Olympiad and the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge. Sixth Form students also have the opportunity to pursue research of personal interest, through the EPQ scheme.

To secure academic success, we offer support sessions for both GCSE and A Level students. Independent study is encouraged and supported through our OneNote resource bank and well-resourced Digital Classroom, which includes links to university-level texts.

We strive to inspire students, nurture their passion for chemistry, and lay the groundwork for further studies in fields such as chemistry, medicine, and pharmacy.