Chemistry
Chemistry is the study of substances, what they are made of, how they interact and what role they play in living things. In fact, it is the study of all materials and it is vital to all aspects of our lives and environment.
Highlights
The enthusiasm for Chemistry within the department has resulted in pupils enjoying a rich experience outside the classroom in initiatives such as the Form I Chemistry Club and the “Top of the Bench” quiz team, who regularly finish in the top 5 at the UK final and were victorious in 2002. In general, performances in SQA examinations are very pleasing, but special mention must be made to the six national awards received within the last eight years for pupils coming top in Scotland in either Higher or Advanced Higher Chemistry.
Course information
Throughout all our courses we aim to increase practical skills, literacy, numeracy, problem solving ability and the capacity for independent study. By sixth year, pupils are well prepared in terms of the practical, report writing and research skills required for further study in tertiary education.
Chemistry is taught independently of the other sciences from the onset in Form I and detailed information on the courses can be found in the curriculum booklets.
Staffing
The Chemistry Department consists of four chemists and one technician with a wide variety of experience, from SQA marking to industrial research, and interests ranging from mountaineering to in-line skating.
|
Name |
Title |
Other Responsibilities |
|
Mr David Brett |
Head of Chemistry |
Duke of Edinburgh Training |
|
Mrs Carol Sinclair |
Chemistry Teacher |
|
|
Dr Philip Taylor |
Chemistry Teacher |
Duke of Edinburgh Training Form I Chemistry Club |
|
Ms Eleanor Grady |
Chemistry Teacher (maternity cover) |
|
|
Isobel Pimbley |
Technician |
For further information, please see the curriculum pages.