Why study chemistry?
Chemistry is a pivotal subject. It is a service subject to those hoping to study Medicine, Veterinary Science, Pharmacology and many Biology-based subjects. It is necessary also for those interested in research in Chemistry itself, Molecular Science and in Chemical Engineering. It is valued as an intellectual training for some other groups such as accountants.
Methodology
The methodology adopted is one that incorporates practically orientated "learning by discovery" methods (the Nuffield approach) with more teacher-led techniques. Sets are organised from year 2 by ability and methods are adapted as far as possible to suit the needs of a particular set. A sensible amount of whole class teaching takes place, but at the same time, pupils are encouraged as the move up the school to take an increasing amount of responsibility for their own learning and progress.
Maxwell Science Centre
With the construction of the James Clerk Maxwell Science Centre the Academy is making clear statements about both the importance of science within secondary education and its future at the Academy. In October 2006 the Academy announced its transformation into a fully co-educational school; the timing of this announcement with the opening of the Science Centre could hardly be more appropriate.
About the Chemistry Department
The Maxwell Centre
Modern science relies heavily on new technology, and science teaching must move with the times. This is not the sort of education where all you need is a classroom and a teacher. The new science centre is bristling with technology to bring science teaching into the 21st century. The new laboratories have been purpose designed, and are therefore ideally suited to the practical activities of a modern scientific education. The Maxwell Centre brings all three sciences: biology, chemistry and physics, together under one roof. It consists of 9 laboratories, with associated preparation areas. There is a 172 seat lecture theatre. |
Laboratories
The labs are all fully equipped with the latest IT aids to enhance teaching and learning, to a specification designed by the Academy’s own staff. All three chemistry laboratories are equipped with fume cupboards and interactive white boards with projection facilities. Pupils’ benches are fitted with gas, water and ample electrical points and in addition, each pupil space has individual intranet and internet access. The new laboratories are light and airy and use space very efficiently to create a really first class learning and teaching environment. |
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At a cost of £4.3 million, The Edinburgh Academy has constructed a new science centre, the James Clerk Maxwell Centre. To ensure that the future pupils of the school have the best possible chance to emulate and even perhaps aspire to surpass the achievements of past pupils such as Maxwell, we have created a state of the art facility for science education..jpg)
There are three laboratories specifically dedicated to chemistry in the James Clerk Maxwell Science Centre as well as a preparation and storage room, but all nine laboratories in the new building can be used for any of the three science subjects as and when the need arises. 
A magnificent school building This page is: Edinburgh Academy / curriculum / chemistry / index.htm
