Physics
Physics is an exciting and varied subject where you study and model the make-up of reality. From the smallest particles and fundamental forces to vast galactic superclusters, physics allows us to unravel why the universe is as we perceive it. It is highly regarded by universities and opens doors to a wide variety of careers, especially for students with a logical, mathematical mind and a desire to tackle the mysteries of the universe.
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Year 12
Students begin by strengthening the mathematical and conceptual tools needed to study the physical world. Topics include particle physics, quantum phenomena, waves, mechanics and materials, and electricity.
Throughout the year, students learn to apply mathematical models, analyse experimental data and explain physical phenomena with increasing precision. Because of the mathematical demands of the course, students studying Physics must also take A Level Mathematics; in exceptional cases, those not studying Maths will need to attend additional Maths lessons.
Year 13
In Year 13 students extend their understanding into further mechanics, thermal physics, fields and their consequences, nuclear physics and astrophysics.
They refine their problem-solving, modelling and data-handling skills and complete a range of required practical activities. All A Level Physics examinations are taken in June at the end of the course.
Assessment Components
Papers 1 & 2
Paper 3
Assessment is through three written examination papers taken in June. Paper 1 covers particle physics, quantum phenomena, waves, mechanics and materials, and electricity. Paper 2 covers further mechanics, thermal physics, fields and their consequences, and nuclear physics. Paper 3 assesses practical skills, data analysis and astrophysics. There is no coursework component.
Opportunities
An A Level in Physics is invaluable as it proves that you can solve problems in the real world. The mathematical, modelling, computational and logical skills you develop are highly valued in a wide range of fields.
Physics supports progression into careers such as engineering, computer gaming, medical research, banking, data science and many more areas where analytical and quantitative skills are essential.
Entrance Requirements
Essential Grade 66 in combined science, grade 6 in Physics, 6 in Maths.
Desirable Grade 7s in GCSE Physics and GCSE Maths.
Physics (A-Level)
Physics is an exciting and varied subject where you study and model the make-up of reality. It is viewed very highly by universities and can open doors to a variety of careers. From studying the smallest particles and fundamental forces that make up the fabric of our existence to modelling the structure of galactic superclusters, physics allows us to unravel why the universe is as we perceive it.
Physics is an excellent subject for anyone with a logical, mathematical mind and a desire to tackle the mysteries of the universe. When choosing to study Physics, students must take Maths as one of their options; in exceptional cases, pupils who study Physics without Maths will need to take an additional Maths lesson.
A Level Studied
Topics include particle physics, quantum phenomena, waves, mechanics and materials, electricity, further mechanics, thermal physics, fields and their consequences, nuclear physics and astrophysics. All examinations are assessed in June.
Assessment
Paper 1: Particle physics, quantum phenomena, waves, mechanics and materials, electricity.
Paper 2: Further mechanics, thermal physics, fields and their consequences, nuclear physics.
Paper 3: Practical skills, data analysis and astrophysics.
Opportunities
An A Level in Physics is invaluable as it proves that you can solve problems in the real world. The mathematical, modelling, computational and logic skills you develop are highly valued in a wide range of fields such as engineering, computer gaming, medical research, banking and many more.
Entrance Requirements
Essential: Grade 66 in combined science, grade 6 in Physics, 6 in Maths.
Desirable: Grade 7s in GCSE Physics and GCSE Maths.