Chemistry
Wellingborough School - North Northamptonshire
01933222427
London Road, Wellingborough, NN8 2BX
Course summary

Chemistry sits between Physics and Biology and overlaps with both. It is the study of elements and compounds, the composition of materials and their properties; thinking on a small scale about the interactions of atoms and electrons, and on a larger scale about the reactions which help shape and mould our modern world. Chemistry’s application in modern society is pivotal to the world we now live in, making this classical subject both contemporary and exciting. Chemistry is a highly respected subject that synergises well with the other Sciences, Mathematics and a variety of other subjects; students often choose Chemistry to develop and illustrate their strength in analytical thinking, problem solving, and numeracy. Most importantly, studying this subject will genuinely change the way you look at the world, as well as develop transferable problem-solving and analytic skills that you will value throughout your life.

Entry requirements

It follows from this that in our professional judgement there is a minimum standard which students need to achieve before we can allow them to enter the Sixth Form. Students wishing to enter Wellingborough Sixth Form in September 2023 should have achieved at least four Grade 6s and two Grade 5s at GCSE, although individuals falling below this will be considered if their personal circumstances and/or specific distribution of grades suggest that A level study would be appropriate. In reality, we have found that falling below a top grade in a subject which will be followed at A level is unlikely to lead to anything above a C Grade at the end of two years. No student will be accepted onto an A Level Mathematics course with anything below Grade 7. For fresh-start subjects, GCSE performance in English and/or Mathematics may be used by the School to assess suitability. In addition, any student who does not gain at least Grade 4 in English Language or a Grade 4 in Mathematics will be expected to retake these subject exams. This tariff is applied in the students’ own long-term interests. Should your son/daughter fall short of these requirements, Mr Holman – Headmaster, Mrs Baxby – Head of Sixth Form and Mrs Gamble – Deputy Head, Academic, will be available on Results Day when any relevant discussions can take place. There is no specific entry tariff for the OCR A level course, but it would be recommended that students have a minimum grade of a 7 in GCSE / IGCSE Chemistry. It is not necessary to study A level Maths to succeed at A level Chemistry, but to take a Chemistry-related subject any further than A level, A level Maths is a useful addition.

How you'll be assessed

The OCR A level course is linear in nature and is composed of a set of three terminal examinations. Additionally, the course comprises a compulsory practical (CPAC). This takes the form of a minimum of 12 practical activities which are assessed internally against exam board criteria. • Paper 1 Periodic Table, Elements & Physical Chemistry (37%) • Paper 2 Synthesis & Analytical Techniques (37%) • Paper 3 Unified Chemistry is synoptic over both years of course (26%) Exam Board: OCR Assessment: 100% Written Examination (Divided into 3 papers).

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionEast Midlands
Local AuthorityNorth Northamptonshire
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeCo-Educational
ISI ReportView Report
Boarding FeeUnknown
Sixth Form FeeUnknown
AddressLondon Road, Wellingborough, NN8 2BX