Student conducting a chemistry experiment.

A Level

Chemistry

Qualification

Cambridge International AS & A Level Chemistry (9701)

Awarding body

Cambridge International Education (CIE)

Duration

Typically 2 years (AS in Year 1, A Level in Year 2; AS‑only option available)

Study hours

5–6 hours per week, guided 

 


 

Overview

Offer Cambridge International A Level Chemistry to your students when in house specialist teaching or laboratory provision is not viable. Wolsey Hall for Schools delivers the full Cambridge International AS & A Level Chemistry course (9701) through a blended online model, overseen day to day by your staff. Suitable for small cohorts, individual students, or schools needing timetable flexibility, this course allows students to follow a rigorous science pathway without the constraints of staffing or specialist facilities.

 


 

Course assessment information:

Assessment: Students sit AS assessments at the end of year one, with A Level assessments completing the qualification in year two. Papers test multiple choice knowledge, structured and extended response problem solving, and practical or investigative chemistry skills in line with Cambridge International assessment objectives.

AS Level:  

Paper 1 – Multiple Choice 

Paper 2 – AS Structured Questions 

Paper 3 – Advanced Practical Skills or Paper 5 – Planning, Analysis and Evaluation 

A Level:  

Paper 4 – A Level Structured Questions 

Paper 5 – Planning, Analysis and Evaluation 

First examination year: Current syllabus examined from 2022 onwards 

 

What the course covers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can students complete A Level Chemistry without full laboratory access?

Yes. Cambridge allows flexibility through Paper 5, which assesses planning, analysis and evaluation skills without requiring live practical exams. Wolsey Hall prepares students explicitly for the chosen assessment route while ensuring all required practical knowledge is covered.

Can this course run alongside Biology or Physics through Wolsey Hall for Schools?

Yes. Many partner schools deliver all three sciences through Wolsey Hall for Schools. Each subject is taught and assessed independently, allowing schools to offer a full post‑16 science pathway without expanding in‑house specialist staffing.

Who is this course suitable for?

This course is suitable for schools looking to expand subject choice, overcome staffing challenges, support small cohorts or provide greater flexibility for individual students. 

Can a school enrol just one student?

Yes. Our flexible model caters for  single student studying one subject, or multiple students across a range of subjects. 

Can this course fit around our existing timetable?

Yes. Courses are designed to fit alongside your school's timetable and can be delivered through independent or supervised in-school study periods, as an ‘out-of-timetable' course, or through flexible learning centres or wider hybrid learning models. 

How is the course taught?

Students study through structured online modules containing learning materials, activities, quizzes and assignments. They work independently while receiving ongoing support from their teacher and their school. 

How is student progress monitored?

Progress is monitored throughout the course through teacher feedback, assignment grades and regular reviews. Your school receives updates, helping staff identify where students are succeeding and where additional support may be needed. 

How quickly do teachers respond to questions?

Students can contact their teacher through the online learning platform whenever they need academic support. Messages are replied to within 48 hours (excluding weekends), and assignments and mock papers are marked within five days. 

Who supports this course?

Students are supported by UK-qualified subject teachers with expertise in their subject, the majority of whom are based in the UK. Teachers provide academic guidance, mark assignments and give detailed written feedback throughout the course. Teachers are available via the learning platform to answer student questions. 

Can we see the platform before our students enrol on courses?

Yes. We can arrange trial course access and a platform walkthrough, so you can explore how courses are structured before enrolling students. Speak to our team to set this up. 

Do you provide mock exams and predicted grades?

Yes. We've developed our own approach to assessment and academic tracking, designed specifically for flexible, distance learning Our system combines structured assignments, regular teacher feedback and milestone assessments that track progress carefully over time. Mock examinations are included as part of the Core Learning Service and are sat under supervised, in-school conditions, giving students valuable exam practice. Predicted grades are provided on request from your school. 

When can students enrol?

Students can enrol at any time during the year. If a student is taking an examination course, we recommend speaking with us before enrolling so we can help you choose the most appropriate start date. 

How quickly can a student start after registration?

Start times depend on when you register and the course requirements. In some cases, students can begin within a week, while schools planning ahead can arrange enrolments well in advance. 

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