Known as the central science, Chemistry is integral to our understanding of the natural world around us; it is a physical science, and is the study of the properties of and interactions between matter and energy. It uses both mathematical and physical concepts to generate ideas important for understanding biological and geographical processes.


    Throughout the school Chemistry is taught with an emphasis on the practical experience and development of practical skills and applications. Pupils follow the Edexcel iGCSE Chemistry specification over three years from the beginning of Shell (Year 9), with initial concepts being revisited and refined throughout the three years. This course is an excellent foundation for further study in the Sixth Form, where we offer the OCR Chemistry A-level course.


    The Chemistry department is housed within the newly extended science block and students have access to six well-equipped laboratories.

    Co-curricular Chemistry

    There are a number of activities open to students based in the Chemistry department, including a Crest award scheme that runs from Shell through to Sixth Form, where pupils are given a real world problem to solve.

    In the Sixth Form students are encouraged to read and discover the applications of Chemistry beyond the specification, making use of publications such as Chemistry Review. Each year we encourage students to participate in national competitions such as the Lower Sixth Cambridge Chemistry Challenge and the Chemistry Olympiad.

    In addition there are weekly extension sessions for those wanting to pursue Chemistry at university level. 

    Chemistry beyond Hurst

    Chemistry is a popular subject in the Sixth Form with many students going on to study Chemistry or related subjects such as Biochemistry or Medicine at highly selective universities. It is known as a facilitating subject as it helps in the development of logical thought, numerical and communication skills; many employers consider it to be excellent training for almost any occupation or profession.

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