Boys usually choose Chemistry for A-level because they enjoyed the subject at GCSE and want to find out a lot more about how nature works on a molecular level (and go on to read a science at university). Chemistry at A-level is also essential for almost all undergraduate courses in Medicine and the complexity of the Chemistry course is a first indicator of a boy’s suitability for this subject. Chemistry is a popular choice for pupils in the Sixth Form with many boys going on to read Chemistry, Physics or related subjects at university. Boys regularly enter national competitions such as the RSC Chemistry Olympiad, C3L6 and the Schools’ Analyst Competition. The Chemistry Department is housed in a new, state-of-the-art building and has its own project laboratory in which Sixth Formers have the opportunity to carry out an independent research project. The Chemistry and Natural Philosophy Societies aim to bring together thoughts and ideas from Chemistry and neighbouring fields and organise regular lectures by prestigious academics. There are also Oxbridge and Olympiad groups for those Sixth Formers who are interested beyond the syllabus. Boys in 6.1 currently study the Edexcel A-level exam course. The top set will go far beyond this specification. As a result of the fact that the course builds on the knowledge, understanding and practical skills that are developed in GCSE, it is expected that pupils will have taken Chemistry at this level and preferably Triple Award (although a Dual Award qualification or Trilogy will be accepted, but will require additional work during the summer holidays prior to starting the course and during the first term).