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Chemistry

Chemistry lies at the heart of all science, providing the link between the world of subatomic physics and molecular cell biology.  Realise it or not, deep down we are all chemists.  Every time we cook a meal, take a breath, or light a match, we perform a chemical reaction.  It is difficult to think of any product introduced in recent times that did not require the innovative efforts of a chemist at some stage in its production.  From the invention of the catalytic convertor, to the discovery of antibiotics and the development of pharmaceuticals, chemists have played a pivotal role in shaping the modern world.

The chemistry department aims to inform and to challenge pupils of all year groups in a safe, positive learning environment.  Pupils are encouraged to think independently and our aim is to provide them with the skills they need to succeed not only in their exams and further education, but equally in everyday life.  We recognise that pupils thrive best when they are enjoying their studies, and to that end, practical work forms an integral part of the curriculum.  From diffusion experiments at the beginning of the 3rd form, to redox chemistry and volumetric analysis in the latter stages of the 6th form, our pupils are guaranteed to gain hands-on experience of the subject throughout their time at King's in modern and well-equipped laboratories.  Pupils at King's are encouraged to read widely, enabling them to more fully appreciate the latest chemical and medical advances.  Our libraries are well stocked with up-to-date texts and chemical literature, which supports the courses we deliver, and goes far beyond for those wishing to study chemistry or related sciences at university.

During the Michaelmas term, 6.1 chemists are offered the opportunity to visit Bristol University for the Schools Christmas Conference.  This workshop features well-known guest speakers and allows our pupils to see the undergraduate labs at close quarters.  During the same term, our 6.2 pupils also travel to Bristol University for a spectroscopy day.  In February, a select group of 6.1 pupils represent the school in the annual RSC Chemistry Analytical Competition.

King's has a thriving Science Society programme, which recently included lectures such as 'A Pollutant's Tale' and 'Drugs from the Sea'.  The Science Society lectures are complemented by the new Horizon Lecture series for 6.2 pupils which take place on Friday afternoons - these events help to stimulate further interest in the subject and to concentrate the thoughts of pupils as they begin the process of applying to university.  As part of our stretch and challenge programme, the science department runs an annual trip for a group of 5th form pupils to the Science Live lectures in Bristol.  In June each year, 3rd form pupils enjoy the challenge of solving the Murder Mystery by analysing fictitious forensic evidence.

Staff profiles

Chris Hamilton was educated at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School in Penrith, and went on to study chemistry at St Edmund Hall, Oxford (MChem), before qualifying as a Chartered Accountant (ACA) in London.  He joined King's in September 2007, is a tutor in Woodard house and coaches football.

Dr David Snell was brought up in South Wales and went to the University of Coventry to study applied chemistry, followed by the University of Bath to study for a PhD in polymer chemistry.  He then pursued a career in product development, during which time he joined the Royal Marine Reserves, culminating in serving on Operation Herrick 7 in Afghanistan.  He is responsible for the 2nd XV rugby squad and is involved with athletics, the CCF Army section, and is the assistant housemaster in Woodward House.
 
David Cole studied chemistry at Swansea University (BSc) before completing his PGCE at Exeter University.  At King's, he is a former housemaster of Bishop Fox house, and is currently Officer Commanding CCF, head of induction and master in charge of boys' hockey.

Ben Greedy grew up in Taunton, before reading chemistry at St Catherine's College, Oxford.  He remained at St Catherine's after his graduation and completed a DPhil in organic chemistry in 2003.  Since then, he has held lecturing and research posts at Cardiff University, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Centre in Florida and the University of Bath.


Click here for details of the 3rd form curriculum

Click here for details of the GCSE course

Click here for details of the A Level course

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