Chemistry
Chemistry at The Perse Sixth Form combines rigorous academic study with an exceptional amount of practical work, helping students develop the knowledge, confidence and investigative skills needed for university and beyond. As a practical science, Chemistry is about understanding how the world works through experimentation, observation and analysis. Our approach embraces this, enabling students to become capable scientists who are confident working safely in the laboratory, rather than simply preparing for examinations.
Practical science at the heart of learning
Students complete around 65 hours of practical work over the two-year A level course, developing advanced laboratory techniques alongside analytical, mathematical and data-handling skills. Every member of the Sixth Form Chemistry teaching team is a specialist chemist with extensive experience of supporting students to achieve their potential and preparing them for competitive university courses.
Learning beyond the specification
Students who wish to explore Chemistry in greater depth can join the Norrish Society, which provides opportunities to discuss topics beyond the A level curriculum and engage with the latest developments in the subject. Many also take part in prestigious competitions including the Chemistry Olympiad, C3L6, the Chemistry Race, the Analyst Competition and the Chemistry Tournament, challenging themselves alongside some of the country’s most able young chemists.
The department also benefits from its Cambridge location, with visits to nearby AstraZeneca providing valuable insight into pharmaceutical research and careers in modern science.
University preparation and future pathways
Chemistry develops highly transferable skills including analytical thinking, problem-solving, practical investigation, mathematical reasoning, data analysis and attention to detail. It provides excellent preparation for university courses in Chemistry, Natural Sciences, Medicine, Pharmacy, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, while also opening doors to careers in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, engineering, research, environmental consultancy, manufacturing, education, finance and the wider science and technology sectors.
Recent highlights
Perse chemists continue to achieve outstanding success in national competitions. In 2026, three students placed in the top 0.41% nationally in the C3L6 competition, receiving Roentgenium Awards and invitations to the national summer camp, while a further 16 students achieved Gold Awards, placing them in the top 9% of entrants.
Students also excelled in the UK Chemistry Olympiad, with 15 Gold Awards, placing them in the top 8.5% nationally. Among these were three Year 11 pupils and one exceptional Year 10 student. One Year 12 student progressed to the second round of the competition and qualified for selection for the International Chemistry Olympiad, going on to achieve a Silver Award at the International Chemistry Olympiad in July 2026.
Assessment details
Three written papers all taken at the end of the Upper Sixth along with a practical component, which is internally assessed.
The examining board is Edexcel.