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Chemistry A Level

Chemistry A Level is a fascinating subject that relates to almost every aspect of modern society. The curriculum, emphasising both scientific principles and practical skills, equips students to solve real-world problems and interpret complex data. As you delve into exciting topics like the elements of life, the chemical industry and more, you will not only gain a strong foundation in chemistry but also develop your logical thinking and problem-solving abilities, opening doors to diverse career paths.

Studying Science in our state-of-the-art labs and project spaces will enable you to develop the necessary technical ability and knowledge to play your part. Whatever your talent, at QMC you will find customised support to meet your aspirations and successfully pursue your particular interests and goals.

Exam board: OCR

QMC Science Students In The Lab

Where can this course take me?

Advances in Science and Technology are revolutionising the world in which we live and influence almost every aspect of our lives. With the pace of discovery and development ever increasing, the range of career opportunities for people with the skills that Science qualifications provide are unimaginably diverse and you will always be in demand.

In Chemistry A Level, students will develop a deep understanding of scientific principles, combined with the ability to solve ‘real world’ problems, and the practical laboratory skills required for analysis, synthesis and research. Drawing conclusions from observations, using general principles to make predictions about specific contexts, interpreting data, explaining interesting phenomena, and calculating quantities of materials involved in chemical reaction will all form an important part of your growing skills. These skills will make you an attractive prospect for many different employers from a variety of different industries. The range of careers specifically based around Chemistry are too numerous to list, but a Chemistry degree is also a very effective route into surprising careers such as law, accountancy, banking and management.

Daisy Foote

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES

QMC offers extra-curricular opportunities to students to help them learn and develop their skills and knowledge, to supplement their classroom learning. As a Chemistry student at QMC, you are able to go on course related trips and experiences. In second year, you are also able to attend Chemistry for University workshop to prepare you to study science in higher education. We also offer an excellent Medics and Vets programme for students who are interested in pursuing a career within these fields. View more enrichment opportunities here.

Discover QMC’s Triple A+ STEM Programme >>

Maddie Reynolds

The Chemistry Department at QMC supply excellent handwritten knowledge packs and corresponding training books with past paper questions. Each training book contains 30-40 pages of past paper questions specifically for the topic being taught, meaning you can go into the exams feeling confident. – Sherfield School

Chemistry at QMC

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the entry requirements for A Level Chemistry?

To study A Level Chemistry, you must meet the college’s general entry requirements of five or more GCSEs at grade 4/5 or above, including GCSE English Language and ideally GCSE Mathematics.

For this course specifically, you will need:

At least a double grade 6 in GCSE Science
A grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics
A grade 5 or above in GCSE English Language

If you studied the three sciences separately at GCSE, you must have achieved at least a grade 6 in GCSE Chemistry and one other science.

How is A Level Chemistry assessed?

A Level Chemistry is assessed through three final written exams at the end of the two-year course.

Paper 1 – 2 hours 15 minutes (worth 41%)
Paper 2 – 2 hours 15 minutes (worth 37%)
Paper 3 (Testing practical skills) -1 hour 30 minutes (worth 22%)

Your final grade is based entirely on your performance in these exams.

Is there coursework in A Level Chemistry?

No. There is no coursework in A Level Chemistry. Your overall grade is determined purely by your results in the final examinations.

Is there practical work in A Level Chemistry?

Yes. Practical work is an important part of the course and helps you develop key laboratory skills.

Although practical work does not count towards your final exam grade, you will complete a separate Practical Endorsement during the course.

What topics will I study in A Level Chemistry?

A Level Chemistry covers a wide range of topics that explore how chemistry shapes our world. You will study:

The elements and compounds that make up living organisms and the universe
Fuels and energy, including cleaner energy development
Halogens and elements extracted from the sea
The chemistry of the ozone layer and environmental protection
Medicines and how they are analysed and developed
Industrial chemical processes
Polymers, proteins, enzymes and DNA
Ocean chemistry and pH balance
Transition metals and their properties
Dyes and pigments in modern materials

These topics help you understand both the science behind everyday life and the role chemistry plays in industry and innovation.

What support is available to help me succeed?

At Queen Mary’s College, we recognise that every student’s journey is unique, and support is available to help you succeed academically and personally. For those aiming high, our Triple A+ programme provides a structured framework that combines academic excellence, ambitious progression, and personalised guidance. Within this, Triple A+ STEM offers a focused pathway for high-achieving scientists, mathematicians, and future engineers, with specialist teaching and preparation for top universities, higher and degree apprenticeships, and professional STEM careers.

Support at QMC comes in multiple forms:

Individual guidance: Our small-scale environment ensures you are known, challenged, and supported as an individual. Independence is encouraged, but expert guidance is always available.
Academic support: Teachers and tutors offer help with course work, homework, study skills, and revision strategies. For STEM subjects, dedicated masterclasses and support sessions are available for students needing extra challenge or assistance.
Student Support Hub: Provides both academic and emotional support to ensure you can thrive in all aspects of college life.

Whether you need help consolidating your understanding, tackling more challenging material, or preparing for competitive progression routes, the combination of Triple A+ STEM, subject-specific support, and the Student Support Hub ensures you are never on your own in your studies.