Chemistry

Why Study Chemistry?

At Beaulieu, we believe a high-quality science education provides the foundation for understanding the world through biology, chemistry, and physics. Science shapes our lives and drives global progress, so students are taught essential knowledge, methods, and applications of science. They learn to explain phenomena, predict outcomes, and analyse causes, fostering curiosity, rational thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Following the Jersey curriculum, students develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding while gaining practical experience through enquiry-based learning, including observation, experimentation, and data analysis. They build precise scientific vocabulary, apply mathematics to scientific problems, and explore the social and economic impact of science.

Science at Beaulieu is taught in context to engage and motivate students, with ‘Working Scientifically’ embedded in lessons rather than taught separately. Discussion and spoken language are central, helping students articulate ideas clearly and address misconceptions. By the end of each key stage, students are expected to know, apply, and understand scientific concepts, processes, and skills, preparing them for future study and life in a scientifically driven world.

Year 7

In Chemistry, students investigate a variety of topics, including Safety and Working Scientifically, Particles, Elements, Reactions, and Separation Techniques. Each unit concludes with an assessment to track progress and guide group placement. Practical lessons develop scientific and mathematical skills, while students also learn to analyse data, form reasoned conclusions, and evaluate evidence, enhancing their understanding of the material world.

Year 8

Students explore a variety of topics, including Working Scientifically, The Periodic Table, Acids and Alkalis, Metals and Acids, and The Earth. Each topic concludes with a formal assessment to monitor progress. At the same time, practical and mathematical skills are developed through hands-on investigations, alongside the ability to analyse data, form informed conclusions, and evaluate scientific evidence.

Year 9-11: (GCSE Trilogy Science)

Chemistry at Beaulieu allows students to explore the substances that make up our world and understand how materials interact, react, and change. Through a mix of practical experiments and theoretical learning, students develop key scientific, analytical, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for further study and future careers in science and technology.

In Year 9, students are introduced to key concepts including Atomic Structure, The Periodic Table, Crude Oil and Fuels, and Chemical Analysis.

In Year 10, students study Chemical Calculations, Chemical Changes, Electrolysis, Energy Changes, and Rates and Equilibrium. Regular assessments ensure progress is closely monitored. There is no coursework for GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy, so these assessments and mock exams at the end of the year are vital preparation for final GCSE exams.

In Year 11, students cover Rates and Equilibrium, The Earth’s Atmosphere, and The Earth’s Resources, alongside focused revision and exam technique practice. Mock exams in January and April help reinforce learning.

Year 9-11: (Chemistry GCSE)

Across Years 9 to 11, students develop a strong understanding of the key principles of Chemistry through engaging, practical, and theory-based learning.

In Year 9, students explore topics such as Atomic Structure, Periodic Table, Structure and bonding, Chemical calculations and Chemical changes. Each topic concludes with an assessment, and full mock exams at the end of the year prepare students for GCSE study.

In Year 10, students build on their knowledge by studying Electrolysis, Energy changes, Rates of Reaction, Crude Oil and Fuels. Regular in-class assessments and end-of-year mock exams allow students to track progress and strengthen their analytical and problem-solving skills. There is no coursework in GCSE Chemistry, so these assessments play a key role in exam preparation.

In Year 11, students study Organic reactions, Polymers, The Earth’s Atmosphere and Resources and Using Resources supported by targeted revision and exam technique practice. Assessments are completed throughout the year, with mock exams in January and later in the spring term. The GCSE course concludes with two written exams assessing knowledge and skills through multiple-choice, calculation, and extended-response questions.

Year 12-13: (A Level)

A Level Chemistry A provides an engaging insight into the modern world of chemistry, combining academic challenge with practical application. The course covers the fundamental concepts of chemistry while integrating practical skills throughout, allowing students to investigate, analyse, and solve problems in a variety of contexts. Students also explore the impact of chemical research and its relevance to everyday life.

The course features clear and straightforward assessment through examinations, is built around key chemical concepts, and offers numerous opportunities to develop practical skills through a range of experiments and investigations.

In Year 12, students study Foundations in Chemistry, including Atoms and Reactions, Electrons, Bonding and Structure, The Periodic Table, Physical Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry, covering Basic Concepts, Hydrocarbons, Alcohols, Haloalkanes, and Analysis.

In Year 13, students build on this foundation with topics including Rates, Equilibrium and pH, Energy, Transition Metals, Aromatic Compounds, Carbonyls and Acids, Nitrogen Compounds, Polymers, and Synthesis and Analysis.