Possible Clues:

• “____ particles are terribly boring, which is one reason why we’re so interested in them” (Steven Weinberg)
• Attempt to master alphabet's beginning with first three letters in a row -- like ABC?
• See about the placing of English players on pitch -- that's fundamental
• Basic
• Principal enemy later destroyed
• The school for chemists?
• This old school was basic
• Three consecutive characters spelt out attempt to accept American in his kind of school
• Simple copper perhaps uncovered nark before Yard
• Fundamental part of detective's catchphrase?