Chemistry
Chemistry at Caterham is fun.
In the First Year, pupils study chemistry as part of an integrated science course, learning basic experimental skills and generally becoming familiar with practical work and competent with the use of equipment.
By the Second Year, chemistry is taught as a separate subject by a specialist teacher. The pupils follow an in-house course that aims to maintain a practical emphasis whilst focusing on key areas of chemistry such as acids, rates and combustion.
In the Third Year, pupils begin to study for the edexcel IGCSE Triple Science qualification. There is the option in the Fifth Year to do Double Award, but the majority continue with the three separate sciences.
At A-level we follow the OCR A specification. There is a heavy emphasis upon practical work and this serves as good preparation for the assessed coursework component.
All A level chemists are encouraged to participate in the various RSC promoted activities, culminating in the most able sitting for the Olympiad. We have had many Gold Awards in recent years as well as a student making it through to the UK team and represent the country.
The vast majority of the A level chemists go on to study chemistry related degree courses at good universities, including Oxford and Cambridge.
In 2012 the Department received a Good School Guide Award:
Girls taking Chemistry at AS level at an English School
Biographies
David Keyworth MSc - Head of Chemistry
David is a graduate of the University of Salford with an MSc from the University of Wales. After a time in academic biochemical research into parasitology he went on to study for a PGCE. David has been Head of Chemistry since he joined Caterham in 2006. Amongst his hobbies are rock climbing and mountain walking.
Mrs Elizabeth Rivers BSc - Head of Fifth Year, Assistant Head of Staff Development
Mrs. Rivers has been teaching Chemistry at Caterham School since September 2001, before this her range of teaching experience has encompassed at Woldingham School, Nonsuch High School, and Whitton School. She enjoys reading, cooking, swimming, and gym fitness.
Stephen Gilburt MA – Teacher of Chemistry
Stephen gained an honours degree in Biochemistry by part time study whilst working as a Forensic Chemist with the Metropolitan Police. He then gained his PGCE and taught Chemistry and Science in comprehensive schools in Lambeth and Sutton for 20 years. He holds an MA awarded by Kingston University. His interests include visiting the theatre and, although not a performer, assist with the technical side of school productions.
Miss Kate Hanford PhD – Teacher of Chemistry
Kate graduated from the University of Bristol with a MSci in Chemistry. The third year of her degree was spent studying at the University of Madison-Wisconsin, USA. She achieved her PhD on aerosol optical tweezers from the University of Bristol. Kate has been involved in gymnastics since a young age and helps to coach the Caterham School Gymnastics Club.
Miss Sophie Day MChem (Hons) – Teacher of Chemistry
Sophie studied Chemistry at Brasenose College, Oxford, specialising in organic chemistry through synthesis of anti-HIV natural products before gaining her PGCE from King's College London. She has always had a keen interest in the theatre and assists with the running of school productions. Other interests include cooking and travel.