Studying Chemistry at Bloomfield Collegiate School

Curriculum Leader: Dr S Swann

Our vision

Chemistry is the key to unlocking the mysteries of life, the universe, and everything in between. It is the cornerstone of innovation and progress, shaping the world we live in and driving advancements across various fields. In our Chemistry Department, we are dedicated to instilling a profound understanding, appreciation, and enthusiasm for the wonders of chemistry.

Our Mission

We are committed to nurturing the next generation of chemists and scientists who will revolutionise the world with their knowledge and ingenuity. Our mission is to foster a culture of exploration, inquiry, and discovery, where students are inspired to delve into the fascinating realms of chemistry and its profound impact on society and the environment.

Core Principles

Inspiration and Exploration: We believe in igniting curiosity and sparking a sense of wonder in our students. By exploring the diverse facets of chemistry, from the molecular intricacies of life to the vast expanses of the cosmos, we aim to inspire a lifelong passion for scientific inquiry and exploration.
Practical Proficiency: Practical work is at the heart of our curriculum. We provide hands-on experiences and investigative experiments that develop students’ skills in laboratory procedures and techniques. Through these experiences, students not only gain proficiency in practical skills but also learn to apply scientific principles in real-world contexts.
Holistic Understanding: Our curriculum goes beyond the traditional boundaries of chemistry. We strive to cultivate an appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of science, highlighting the connections between chemistry and other fields such as biology, physics, environmental science, and technology. By exploring the social, environmental, and technological aspects of chemistry, students gain a holistic understanding of its relevance and impact in diverse contexts.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Central to our approach is the development of critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. Students are encouraged to engage in scientific reasoning, rational thought, and analytical inquiry. Through observation, analysis, evaluation, and communication, they learn to navigate complex challenges and contribute meaningfully to scientific discourse and innovation.
Ethical and Responsible Practice: We uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and responsible practice in the pursuit of scientific knowledge. Safety, integrity, and environmental stewardship are paramount in all laboratory activities. We aim to install in our students a deep sense of responsibility towards society and the environment, fostering a commitment to using their knowledge and skills for the greater

Vision for the Future

Our vision is to empower students to become informed, engaged, and empowered citizens who are equipped to address the global challenges of the 21st century. By fostering a love for learning, a spirit of inquiry, and a commitment to excellence, we aim to inspire the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers who will shape a brighter future through their understanding and application of chemistry.

Together, we embark on a journey of discovery, exploration, and transformation, guided by the enduring principles of chemistry and the boundless potential of the human spirit.

Key Stage 3 Topics

Year 9

Unit 1: Elements, Compounds and Mixtures
Unit 2: Physical and Chemical Changes
Unit 3: Water an important compound

Year 10

Unit 1: Chemical Reactions
Unit 2: Acids and Alkalis
Unit 3: Chemical Analysis
Unit 4: Periodic Table
Unit 5: Atomic Structure

GCSE Summary

Understanding Chemistry helps us to understand life, the universe and everything! Chemists are the people who transform the everyday materials around us into amazing things. Some chemists work on cures for cancer while others monitor the ozone layer protecting us from the sun. Still others are at the cutting edge of technology, developing new materials such as graphene for use in the electronics industries. GCSE Chemistry sets out to foster interest, enthusiasm and understanding through explorations and investigative experiments. The course has a strong emphasis on practical work leading to proficiency in the skills needed by a practicing chemist. The specification also provides opportunities to develop the students’ appreciation of the wider applications of Chemistry in environmental and technological areas.

Pupils hoping to study GCSE Chemistry should have performed well in their Year 10 assessments.

NOTE: Pupils who wish to study Biology at A-Level are advised to study Chemistry to GCSE Level (this is also possible through the Double Award Science pathway).

GCSE Specification

This is a CCEA course. The detailed specification can be found in the CCEA Website.

The specification is divided into three units, one completed in Year 11 and the second and third in Year 12. The third unit involves assessment of practical skills. Many of these areas are familiar to Year 10 pupils so that GCSE Chemistry represents a logical progression from Key Stage 3.

Unit 1: Structures, Trends, Chemical Reactions, Quantitative Chemistry* and Analysis
Unit 2: Further Chemical Reactions, Rates and Equilibrium, Calculations* and Organic Chemistry
Unit 3: Practical Skills

*Note: Good Mathematical skills are an essential requirement of this course.

Examination Summary

Unit 1 (35%): Higher Tier – 1 hour 30 minutes; Foundation Tier – 1 hour 15 minutes.

Unit 2 (40%): Higher Tier – 1 hour 45 minutes; Foundation Tier – 1 hour 30 minutes. Both units 1 and 2 involve externally assessed written examinations consisting of structured questions requiring short answers, extended writing and calculations.

Unit 3 (25%): Both higher and foundation tiers consist of two papers: –

Booklet A (7.5%) 2 hours. Students carry out two pre-released practical tasks in the final year of study.

Booklet B (17.5%) 1 hour. This is an external written examination. Students answer compulsory structured questions that require short responses, extended writing and calculations, all set in a practical context.

A Level Specification and Summary

Assessment consists of six written papers, one for each module.

AS1 1 hour 30 minutes, 40% of AS, 16% of A-level

AS2 1 hour 30 minutes, 40% of AS, 16% of A-level

AS3 Part A is a 1 hour 15 minutes practical exam which takes place in the laboratory and part B is a 1 hour 15 minutes.

written paper 20% of AS, 8% of A-level

A21 2 hours, 40% of A2, 24% of A-level

A22 2 hours, 40% of A2, 24% of A-level

A23 Part A is a 1 hour 15 minutes practical exam which takes place in the laboratory and part B is a 1 hour 15 minutes. written paper 20% of A2, 12% of A-level