Inspection

Inspection Report: Chemistry

Overall attainment is high. Pupils’ attainment at GCSE and A level is high in relation to their abilities. Over the past three years, results at both GCSE and A level have been well above the national average for all maintained schools and above the national average for maintained selective schools.

Pupils’ attainment in chemistry lessons is high and they demonstrated knowledge and insight as well as an ability to draw conclusions from experimental observations and to fit work into the correct contextual framework, as in the development of an understanding of reversible reactions.

Progress is normally rapid and appropriate for the age and ability level of the pupils. The development of practical skills over time is noticeable. Written work shows this to be accompanied by progress in knowledge, understanding and interpretation.

The quality of learning throughout the school is good. Pupils are diligent and generally well-behaved and they learn well. They are motivated and communicate well, not only with their teachers but also with one another. They follow practical instructions accurately and intelligently, as in the lesson on redox. They are not afraid to express their ideas in class and their written work is both clear and well organised. They work efficiently, both individually and in pairs.

A variety of teaching strategies, with a significant emphasis on practical work, is used to challenge the able and assist weaker pupils to achieve their learning aims, including mind-mapping. Most marking seen was clear, regular and contained constructive comments. The departmental marking policy allows for a variety of marking styles but the pupils understand the meaning of their personal marks and grades. Encouraging and constructive comments are made on pupils’ work and in reports to parents.

The management of the department is excellent, resulting in a supportive atmosphere that pervades the department. Schemes of work are clear and logical with attention to safety being a key feature. Much of the INSET over the past years has focussed on examination techniques.

The department is well resourced with equipment held in a very efficient storage and preparation room, which doubles as the staff area.