IB Chemistry

Applications open: Monday 17th November 2025

Applications close: Monday 12th January 2026

Entry requirements: Five GCSEs including: Maths and English at Grade 4.

How to apply: We do not accept KentChoices applications. All applications must be made by clicking on the following link - https://leighacademyrainham.applicaa.com/sixthform

Chemistry is a central science that connects physical sciences with life sciences and applied sciences such as medicine and engineering. Studying chemistry at the IB level develops critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of chemical principles and their applications. It prepares students for further education and careers in various fields including chemistry, biochemistry, medicine, and environmental science.

IB Diploma Programme Chemistry is a two-year experimental science course designed to develop critical thinking and investigative skills alongside core chemical knowledge. The curriculum is structured around two unifying concepts: Structure and Reactivity.

Students explore the fundamental makeup of matter and how it changes. Structure: Key topics include Atomic Structure Chemical Bonding (ionic, covalent, metallic), the organisation of the Periodic Table, and the properties of the states of matter, including the behaviour of gases. You'll master Stoichiometry (the mole concept) for precise chemical calculations. Reactivity: This covers the "why" and "how" of chemical reactions, including Energetics (measuring energy changes), Kinetics (reaction rates), Equilibrium (reversible reactions), Acids and Bases, Redox processes, and a detailed study of Organic Chemistry (carbon compounds). The course strongly emphasises practical work. Students engage in regular laboratory experiments, a Collaborative Sciences Project, and a compulsory Scientific Investigation (Internal Assessment - IA), which counts for 20% of the final grade.

Paper 1

Multiple-choice questions on core topics

20% of grade

Paper 2

Short-answer and extended-response questions on core topics

36% of grade

Paper 3

Questions on the option topic chosen by the student

24% of grade

Internal Assessment: Individual Investigation

A practical project where students design an experiment, collect data, and analyse results

20% of grade

5 GCSES at Grade 9-4. *GCSE Maths at Grade 5 or above. GCSE Grade 6-6 or above in Combined Science, or Grade 6 or above in GCSE Chemistry

The most direct paths lfrom gaining a qualification in IB Chemistry include:

Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals: IB Chemistry is often a prerequisite for demanding degrees like Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Pharmacy, and Biochemistry. Subsequent careers include:

Pharmacologist or Medicinal Chemist: Developing new drugs and studying their effects.

Clinical Research Associate: Managing clinical trials for new medicines.

Toxicologist: Investigating the adverse effects of chemical substances.

Chemical Engineer: Designing and developing industrial processes that turn raw materials into products (e.g., plastics, fuels, pharmaceuticals).

Analytical Chemist: Using sophisticated techniques to determine the chemical composition and behaviour of substances in quality control, environmental monitoring, or product testing.