Chemistry
Aims of the Department
- To maintain and stimulate pupil curiosity, interest and enjoyment in Chemistry.
- To enable pupils to understand the language and logic of Chemistry.
- To encourage a methodical and practical approach to problem-solving.
- To allow pupils to develop informed opinions and to be able to support them by reasonable arguments.
- To nurture an appreciation in pupils to see the importance of Chemistry in society, the world and in our everyday lives.
- To foster a sense of safety and care in pupil’s work.
- To develop a range of personal qualities such as perseverance, initiative and independence.
- To enable pupils to work independently and as part of a team.
- To employ teaching methods and resources that allows all pupils (irrespective of their gender, ethnic origin and academic ability) to have access to Chemistry and to experience success and enjoyment in their work.
Program of Study
In the first year of studies, pupils study chemistry as part of an integrated science course, learning basic experimental skills and safety. In the second year, chemistry is taught as a stand alone subject, and builds upon the work in the first year, looking at chemical reactions and beginning to rationalise observations. Both the second and the first year are based upon Key stage 3 of the National Curriculum and provide a strong basis for GCSE.
In the third year, pupils begin their studies towards the GCSE examination, with the option in the fourth year to study chemistry as part of Double Award science or as a Separate science subject. In both cases, the Edexcel syllabus is followed and this affords pupils a broad background in the major branches of the subject. Coursework is a key component of this in the fourth and fifth years, allowing pupils to plan and conduct their own investigation.
At A-level, pupils also follow the Edexcel specification. Within this there is the option to study towards the full A-level after two years or the AS level after one year. In the first year of study, pupils are given a broad overview of the key subject areas, drawing and building upon subject matter studied at GCSE; pupils are encouraged to look for patterns and trends in the study of inorganic chemistry, to memorise and utilise their studies of organic chemistry and to analyse data and justify in physical chemistry. There is a heavy emphasis upon practical work, which combines accuracy and logic with a keen sense of observation and organisation. In the second year, the topics are revisited and built upon further but there is a greater emphasis upon depth and a much more rigorous understanding is required; ultimately a final synoptic examination combines and tests all areas of the two years of study. For our most able chemists, there is also the Advanced Extension examination and the Royal Society of Chemistry's Olympiad competition.
Other Activities
Within the school, the department also holds weekly co-curricular clubs for all age groups.
Biographies
David Keyworth MSc - Head of Chemistry
A graduate of the University of Salford with an MSc from the University of Wales. Formerly at Hampton School teaching A level Chemistry to Oxbridge entrance pupils. He is a member of the Association for Science Education. Amongst his hobbies are rock climbing and mountain walking.
Mrs Elizabeth Rivers BSc - Head of Third 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.
Dr James Burnside PhD, MChem (Hons) Teacher of Chemistry
A graduate of the University of Warwick, James completed his PGCE at King's College London.
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, will be assisting 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.
Dr Stephen Nolan PhD – Teacher of Chemistry