Chemistry - Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE)

The course requires your active participation to undertake research, solve problems and analyse data. Topics are approached in meaningful contexts in order to encourage you to explore concepts rather than to simply accept knowledge, and to look at what may be familiar subject knowledge in a different way and therefore develop a better understanding of the subject. This approach will help you to model the pedagogic approach that has been proven to facilitate learning in the classroom.

The aim is to direct you to construct your own knowledge through carrying out a series of tasks and activities. You are expected to form a deeper understanding of the concepts behind the issues under discussion and to form an appreciation of their wider context. Where possible, ideas encountered in the on-demand material are linked to classroom practice and vested in practical science.

The course looks briefly at Key Stage 3 themes and approaches, continuing through and beyond Key Stage 4 to secure your subject knowledge sufficiently to support your teaching at AS/A-level, if required. Most of the sessions have a task associated with them which SKE participants are expected to undertake. These tasks are generally of higher GCSE or A-level standard.

All applicants for undergraduate programmes will need a minimum English level of IELTS or equivalent 6.0 overall, with no less than 6.0 in writing and no less than 5.5 in all other bands. Some programmes require 6.5/7.0 – please contact the International Office if you are unsure of your course requirement.

For postgraduate entry all applicants will need a minimum of IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in writing and no less than 5.5 in all other bands or equivalent. Some courses have a higher requirement – please contact the International Office if you are unsure of your course requirement.

For International Foundation entry all applicants will need a minimum of IELTS 5.0 or equivalent, with no less than 5.0 in writing and no less than 4.0 in all other bands.

If you have taken an IGCSE exam in English and have a Grade C, this will also usually be acceptable for most undergraduate courses.

We are also able to consider some non-UK English qualifications for entry. The International Admissions Team will advise if they are able to accept your English language qualification once you have applied.