Shimna Chemistry Department

 

At Shimna Integrated College we offer the opportunity to study AS and A2 chemistry. Our department provides strong support to the students with a healthy balance of theory and practical activities. 

Students studying the course participate in numerous lab practicals that are specifically aimed to consolidate learning in class. The activities focus on applying the students understanding and developing key lab skills required for a future career in the sciences. Chemistry is a popular choice at A-level in Shimna, with the class being oversubscribed again this year.

Students are very keen and regularly volunteer for extracurricular activities. During open day our A-level students showcase some of their advanced level practicals. Students are keen to demonstrate their new skills to visitors and are rightly proud of their success.

 

About the Department.

The department runs courses in small, well managed classes. Classes are all ability, and there is every opportunity for students to excel.  Students are set homework on a daily basis to assist them in their learning. Staff use an online virtual learning centre to provide support materials which are designed to aid the learner prepare for exams. Regular contact is maintained by school email between students and their teacher.

The chemistry lab is well resourced for high quality lessons, chemistry software packages that provide enhanced learning activities and an ever growing collection of chemistry lab apparatus. Students learn the correct way to operate equipment from a teacher who has worked in the pharmaceutical industry. In summer 2013 our labs underwent a full renovation and are now of the highest standard in any school.

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About the Head of Chemistry

Alan McDonnell is the Head of Chemistry at Shimna Integrated College. He administers all A-level chemistry lessons and teaches at GCSE and KS3. Alan began his career working in precision engineering. He returned to university to complement his engineering background with an Honours Degree in Applied Chemistry. After graduating Alan studied for a Higher Diploma in Education in the National University of Ireland, Galway and completed his teacher training in County Galway. On completion of this course Alan began work in Élan Pharmaceuticals Ltd as a laboratory analyst. It is here that he gained the lab skills that he shares with his class. He started his teaching career in Passmores School and Technology College in Essex, England before moving to Shimna in 2008. 

 

About our A-level Courses:

The Chemistry department administers its course using the WJEC exam board. Students complete two modules in AS, Written modules are examined in May/June, in accordance with recent exam board changes.

In A2 students complete modules 3, 4 and 5. Module 5 is an examination based in practical skills. Our department prides itself in ensuring students are prepared for their module exams.