CALENDAR
Physics
A Level
The study of Physics allows us to understand the world around us. It is crucial to explaining what the world is made up of and how it fits together. During the course students will acquire numerical, analytical and problem solving skills, all of which are sought after by numerous employers. The course aims to develop practical skills whilst covering the topics of particles and radiation, current electricity, mechanics, materials and waves. Students continually build on these practical skills and develop their knowledge of mechanics, alongside exploring the topics of gravitation, magnetic fields, radioactivity, thermal physics and cosmology.
Students develop their knowledge and passion for physics further through the visit to the Nuclear Fusion research facility in Abbingdon, staying overnight in Oxford followed by a masterclass for A Level Physics students at the National Space Centre. We also lead a trip to Switzerland to visit the large Hadron Collider at CERN as well as other sites in Geneva.
Course Outlines
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in GCSE Physics or 6,6 GCSE Combined Science, with Grade 6 or above in GCSE Mathematics and Grade 4 in GCSE English Language.
Assessment
Three external examinations:
- Paper 1 = 34%
- Paper 2 = 34%
- Paper 3 = 32%
Course Units
Measurements and their Errors
Particles and Radiation
Waves
Mechanics and Materials
Electricity
Further Mechanics and Thermal Physics
Fields and their Consequences
Nuclear Physics
Turning Points in Physics
Future Opportunities
A physics qualification is essential for all types of engineers, as the basic principles of physics underlie all other areas of modern technology. Previous students have gone on to study physics and other related courses at university level, as well as medicine, maths, chemistry, pharmacy and computer science.
Further Information
Physics is suitable for those with a logical and numerate mind, excellent problem solving skills and the ability to work integrally as part of a team, alongside being able to communicate effectively in practical situations.
As part of our physics course we visit CERN and take a trip to the Nuclear facility near Oxford (once we are in a position to take part in trips again)