Chemistry

At Badminton, girls develop an understanding of how Chemistry underpins our everyday existence. It is responsible for advances in the quality and comfort of our lives and is central to our understanding of the natural world. 

The Chemistry curriculum at Badminton is both challenging and interesting, providing a pathway into a wide array of university courses and future careers. Designed to stretch pupils intellectually while nurturing a genuine enjoyment of the subject, it lays a strong foundation for further scientific study. 

Our well-resourced Chemistry Department offers an outstanding learning environment. Expert subject specialists work alongside highly skilled technical staff to ensure that every student benefits from access to high quality equipment and facilities. 

Years 7 and 8 

In Years 7 and 8, pupils study Chemistry as part of the wider Science curriculum.  Lessons focus on scientific processes and an emphasis on practical skills leads naturally to co-curricular science.  

The British Science Associations CREST Awards encourage girls to stretch their knowledge and practical experience of science still further. Trips to We The Curious and visits from the Explorer Dome help to bring complex ideas to life, such as the nature of the early universe and planet Earth. 

GCSE 

From Year 9 to Year 11, pupils study the Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry course—a dynamic and thought-provoking syllabus. 

The course explores the traditional foundations of Chemistry, including atomic structure, bonding and chemical reactions, alongside modern topics such as the changing atmosphere and materials science, giving pupils insight into both fundamental theory and contemporary innovation. 

Hands-on practical work is at the heart of the IGCSE experience. Through regular experiments and investigations, pupils develop strong analytical and evaluative skills, while also building skills such as logical reasoning, collaboration, and scientific communication.  

Whether pupils are preparing for A Level Chemistry or simply developing scientific literacy, pupils at Badminton are empowered to think independently and discover the fascinating possibilities Chemistry has to offer. 

A Level 

At A Level, we follow the popular AQA syllabus, exploring an exciting breadth of chemical concepts that provide a strong, versatile foundation for future scientific and medical studies. This rigorous course is designed to spark intellectual curiosity and challenge even the most able pupils. 

A core highlight of the course is the Practical Endorsement, where pupils hone their investigative, analytical, and evaluative skills—crucial competencies for thriving in any science-based university course or research environment. 

Beyond the classroom, our Chemistry pupils are encouraged to stretch themselves through prestigious national competitions such as the Royal Society of Chemistry's Chemistry Olympiad and the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge. These experiences not only deepen their subject knowledge but also foster confidence and resilience. 

Each year, our Lower Sixth pupils take part in ‘Chemistry in Action’, an inspiring day of lectures designed to bring the subject to life. This event gives pupils the opportunity to hear directly from research scientists, offering fascinating insights into real-world applications of Chemistry beyond the classroom. 

Our popular co-curricular programme includes the ‘Science Research’ club, where pupils take ownership of real-world projects, designing and conducting independent investigations that mirror the work of PhD students.