KS5 Chemistry
For Chemistry, we will achieve our curriculum vision by ensuring: That all UTC Leeds students are able to ask the right questions, analyse and evaluate information, and be able to form and justify their own opinions based on scientific principles.
Chemistry builds a powerful mix of skills that employers highly value—analytical thinking, precision, problem-solving, and scientific literacy. It opens doors to careers in medicine, engineering, forensics, pharmaceuticals, and more.
Our Chemistry curriculum is built around key ‘non-negotiables’—the essential knowledge and skills students must master. These are taught through a carefully sequenced, four-year learning plan, with clear progression from competency to mastery.
This structured approach not only supports academic success but also prepares students with the transferable skills and real-world understanding needed to excel in both further study and the workplace.
Exam board: AQA
Year 12
- Atomic Structure
- Bonding
- Energetics and rates of reaction
- Equilibrium
- Group 2 and 7
- Basic Organic Chemistry
Year 13
- Thermodynamics
- Further Rates of Reaction and Equilibrium
- Period 3 elements and their oxides
- Transition metal chemistry
- Further Organic Chemistry
- Organic Synthesis and Analysis
A separate endorsement of practical skills will be taken alongside the A-level. This will be assessed by teachers and will be based on direct observation of students’ competency in a range of skills that are not assessable in written exams.
Employability Skills & Career Opportunities - Studying A Level Chemistry equips students with valuable analytical, problem-solving, and laboratory skills. You'll develop the ability to think logically, work with precision, and understand complex scientific data—skills that are highly sought-after in science and beyond.
Key Skills Developed:
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Analytical thinking and data interpretation
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Laboratory techniques and safety awareness
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Precision, accuracy, and attention to detail
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Problem-solving and critical evaluation
Career Opportunities:
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Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry
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Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industries
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Forensic Science and Environmental Analysis
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Biochemistry, Toxicology, and Research Science
Useful links:
- https://www.s-cool.co.uk/
- https://www.bbc.com/bitesize/levels/z98jmp3
- https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science
- https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-a-level-gce/chemistry-a-h032-h432-from-2015/
- http://www.iop.org/
- http://www.rsc.org/