A Level Chemistry
The Aylesbury Vale Academy - Buckinghamshire
01296428551
Paradise Orchard, Aylesbury, HP18 0WS
Course summary

Are you fascinated by chemical reactions? Do you want to explore the world of atoms and molecules? Then chemistry is the course for you. This course provides the opportunity to gain essential knowledge, understanding and practical skills in different areas of the subject, alongside developing an appreciation of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and the contribution science makes to the success of both the economy and society. It allows students to obtain the necessary skills to explain many aspects of contemporary chemistry such as climate change, green chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and chemistry research. The Chemistry course can be taken as a stand-alone subject or to complement Biology. Combined with other Sciences at A Level, Chemistry can lead to further study at university such as Medicine, Veterinary Science, Sports Science, Engineering and Environmental Science. Even if you don't choose to take any Science further, studying Chemistry A Level shows employers and further education providers that you have problem solving skills and are able to understand difficult concepts. Chemistry degrees are well known for having strong job prospects; there's a growing need for those who have not only advanced science know-how, but also have creative capabilities. Job areas include in analytical chemistry, engineering, healthcare research, forensic science and pharmacology, as well as outside science in accounting, consultancy, journalism and teaching.

Entry requirements

How you'll be assessed

The qualification uses a 100% terminal exam assessment model. The AQA AS Chemistry consists of two externally examined papers in May /June of Year 12. The duration of each paper is 1 hour 30. The AS qualification will be graded on a five-point scale: A, B, C, D and E. The AQA A Level Chemistry consists of three externally examined papers in May/June of Year 13. The duration of each paper is 2 hours and includes a synoptic essay as part of Paper 3. The A-level qualification will be graded on a six-point scale: A*, A, B, C, D and E. Students who fail to reach the minimum standard for grade E will be recorded as U (unclassified) and will not receive a qualification certificate. A separate endorsement of practical skills will be taken alongside the A-level. This will be assessed by teachers and will be based on direct observation of students’ competency in a range of skills that are not assessable in written exams.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth East
Local AuthorityBuckinghamshire
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressParadise Orchard, Aylesbury, HP18 0WS