First look at A-level alternative

University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE), part of the university's Cambridge Assessment Group, is working with independent and state specialist schools, and universities in drafting syllabuses for 19 subjects, including the core sciences of chemistry physics and biology, which will form the new Cambridge Pre-U diploma.  

Cambridge Pre-U chemistry

In October 2005 the CIE began a consultation with schools and universities about its proposed design of a pre-university qualification which would 'prepare students to make a success of their subsequent studies at university'. The CIE put forward a simple qualification structure, similar in style to the IB, of three main subjects plus one subsidiary subject and a further opportunity, ie extended essay component, for students to develop and demonstrate skills of value in higher education. However, unlike the IB, the Cambridge Pre-U diploma will give students the opportunity to focus on their academic strengthens and interests, ie a student keen on science would be entitled to study all three core sciences plus maths, rather than be forced to choose between a science and a modern language.  

In response to the consultation, Chas McCaw, chemistry teacher at Winchester College, put forward a proposal for a new style post-16 chemistry syllabus. Impressed by his 'bold and innovative' ideas, the CIE invited McCaw to put together and chair a chemistry development panel, which includes Simon Cotton (Uppingham School), Mike Thompson (Winchester College), Peter Wothers (University of Cambridge) and Lynne Symonds (the Association for Science Education). Following further consultation with the Rugby Group and Eton Group schools, the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) and the Russell Group universities, the development team has now prepared a draft chemistry syllabus.