Department Profile
Mr A Hardwicke MSc (Oxon.) - Head of Chemistry
Mr U Choudhury BSc (Hons.)
Mr N Hussain BSc (Hons.) MSc NPQH - Senior Leadership Team
Mrs A Taylor BSc (Hons.)
Mrs M Thind MSc
The chemistry department is a successful curriculum area consisting six teachers and a technical support team. There are two specialist chemistry laboratories, consisting of state-of-the-art equipment. Chemistry is offered as a separate subject at all levels, and is a very popular choice for many students at post-16 level. Chemistry is a rewarding subject, and there is good team spirit within staff and students, who work together to create a positive, enjoyable and fun environment to work in.
Key Stage 3
Students are taught Chemistry in form groups in years 7 and 8, and follow the National Curriculum. Learning is supported by practical work, and students are encouraged to develop independent learning skills. Three lessons per fortnight are offered, and a range of resources are available to learners for homework and extension activities.
Key Stage 4
Chemistry forms part of the compulsory science curriculum at GCSE, and students in years 9 to 11 follow the AQA science specification. Students complete ‘core’ and ‘additional’ chemistry courses, supported by ‘how science works’ element of their learning. Topics followed include atomic structure, bonding, chemical patters, environmental chemistry and reversible reactions. Assessment is through unit exams, CAU’s and other in-class tests.
Post-16
Many students choose to pursue chemistry as part of their AS/A2 or IB studies. A minimum of B is required at GCSE to commence sixth form study, and while the subject is challenging, it is also very rewarding. Results have consistently been excellent for the past several years, enabling students to access competitive degree courses at University. Topics covered include Elements of life, Developing fuels, Elements from the Sea, Medicines and drugs and Medicine by Design and learning is supported by e-learning through the VLE, group and project work, and visits to universities and chemical industry.
Cross-curricular Links
The Chemistry department extensively contributes towards Slough Grammar School’s specialist science status. For example going to primary school and teaching lessons, spooky science week, Christmas week, chemistry week, joint adventures with Design and Technology.
During science week, pupils pursue a number of chemistry related activities, such as making molecular models, micro-rockets, solving mysteries, metal ion detections etc.