Chemistry

Head of Department: Mr. W.G. McCluskey
Staff: Dr. N. Cully, Mrs T.D. Reid
Technician: Mr. S.J. Scott

Chemistry is about substances.  Everything that we can see, taste and feel is made up of substances.  In Chemistry we study how these substances behave and try to understand why they do what they do. Use of video tapes, CD ROMs, models, digital projectors, interactive whiteboards, laboratory internet facilities and an extensive range of specialised equipment, serves to aid pupils' understanding of the key concepts. In addition, the assistance of a full time laboratory technician and use of three recently refurbished laboratories ensures that the practical aspects of the subject are well catered for.

Key Stage 3

In Years 8 & 9 the subject is taught through Integrated Science in combination with Biology and Physics.  Subject specialists deliver the remaining Key Stage 3 Chemistry content to Year 10 pupils by use of units of work prepared by the Chemistry staff. Pupils are continuously assessed by use of unit tests, end of term examinations, coursework and end of key stage examinations.

Key Stage 4

In Years 11 & 12, Key Stage 4 pupils have the option to take Triple Award Chemistry.  This involves the use of well-defined units of work comprising both theoretical and practical aspects of the subject and are based mostly on interactive worksheets. Each unit has a standard end of unit test to enable pupils and staff to monitor progress.  Emphasis on “past paper” questions throughout the course ensures that our pupils appreciate the standard required to achieve at this level.

A Level

On successful completion of Key Stage 4, many of our students embark on A Level Chemistry through the Edexcel Specification. Students have access to the full range of support materials, published by “Nelson” and written for this specification. In addition “mock” examinations are a key feature in our examination preparation. L6 students have the opportunity to complete part of their formal assessment for A Level Chemistry when they attempt Advanced Subsidiary modular examinations at the end of the academic year.  This subject is essential preparation for many careers in industry, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, ophthalmic optics, veterinary medicine and studies related to these areas.  The number of students embarking on such careers is a testament to the excellent results achieved at Key Stages 3, 4 and A Level.

We are justifiably proud of our external examination results, having had students achieve first and second places in GCSE Chemistry in Northern Ireland and at advanced level, our students have been placed in the top five out of nearly four thousand candidates. That one of our advanced level students won the gold medal for achieving first place in Chemistry at the Irish Science Olympiad was particularly satisfying.