Every opportunity is taken to promote the image of chemistry amongst the students through activities and competitions. In the lower school, students are encouraged to apply for places at the annual Salters Chemistry Camps and a team is entered in the National Chemistry Quiz. In the Sixth Form students enter for the Laboratory of the Government Chemist Analysis Quiz, for the Chemistry Olympiad run by the RSC and the RSC Analytical Division Schools' Analyst Competition.  Students are encouraged to attend the meetings of the school science society (Lucretian Society) where talks are presented by outside speakers.  The department has recently set up a team of senior students to present exciting practical demonstrations to audiences of varying ages.

The theory of Chemistry is taught as much as possible using hands-on experience of the substances and processes involved. In setting these activities in context, pupils are made aware of the industrial, social and economic aspects of the Chemistry they are studying. Pupils are taught the skills of carrying out practical work in Chemistry safely. They are made aware of career opportunities in Chemistry and, specifically, provided with chemical knowledge and understanding required for study in other areas e.g. medicine.

In the Foundation Year (Year 9), all pupils follow a common chemistry course.  At the end of the Foundation Year (Year 9) pupils can choose between Science Double Award (Combined) or Chemistry as a separate subject.  Chemistry is a popular choice of subject for Sixth Form pupils taking either A levels or the International Baccalaureate.