Chemistry A Level

Applications Open: - Friday 14 November 2025

Applications Close: - 13 February 2026. Applications may be considered after this date but it is strongly advised to apply before this deadline.

Entry Requirements: - Admission to courses - This is based on your needs and staff advice, but you should be aware of these points: 1. You will need to obtain a minimum of six GCSE passes at Level 5 or above including Mathematics and English (a minimum of a grade 5 in the reformed GCSE qualifications in English and Mathematics) and grades 9-6 in their preferred A-Level subjects or nearest equivalents. 2. Subjects have clear entry requirements. You will find these under the course details or from Subject Heads.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices (Internal and External Students)

External Applicants - please click here (This form is for external candidates and parents/carers to book a slot to ask any questions about the admissions process and Sixth Form at Highsted Grammar School). Please be aware that it is first come, first served. We will try our best to accommodate your preferences but this might not always be possible).

Internal candidates - should contact their Head of Year directly.

Advanced Level Chemistry is an essential qualification for students wishing to pursue a degree/career not only in Medicine, Veterinary Science, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Food Technology, Pharmacology and Forensic Science, but other non-science careers. A Level Chemistry is essential for certain career paths, but it is also valuable for students studying A Level Biology and can provide support for aspects of A Level Physics and Geography.

Chemistry at A Level is interesting, stimulating and academically challenging. The AQA course will enable students to appreciate the inter-linking patterns that are a distinguishing feature of Chemistry, recognise the value of the subject to society and how it may be used responsibly. The specification fosters imaginative and critical thinking, as well as the acquisition of knowledge, together with an appreciation of the intellectual discipline that the subject provides. There are 12 detailed and amended experiments carried out over two years. Students must complete 5 different competencies in this area of their studies. This involves researching, following methodology, data collection, reporting and referencing. These skills help students develop skills and knowledge and understanding of key concepts in Chemistry

Minimum entry requirements to A Level are a grade 7 in separate Chemistry especially in the C2 and C3 exams. Furthermore, grade 7 in Mathematics is expected. Chemistry at A Level is academically demanding. The students who perform best are those with good mathematical skills and an in-depth understanding of the fundamental principles of the science studied at GCSE level. Successful Chemistry students have good independent learning strategies and skills and tend to also work well in a group, benefiting from the strengths of others as well as making a positive contribution to the group dynamics. Attention to minute details and ability to recognise patterns is highly desirable.