Physics
Course summary
Physics at A level is a subject for the curious, for those who ask the deepest questions about the universe but who also want to know about the workings of the physical world in everyday life. You’ll develop the ability to plan, implement, analyse and evaluate practical exercises. You’ll learn strategies for successful problem solving, and gain an understanding of the use of IT for analysis of results using Excel, data gathering and research. You’ll also become skilled at communicating difficult concepts clearly. The course is essential for students who wish to go on to study engineering as well as physics and prepares you for a wide range of other related degrees such as architecture, natural sciences, maths and medicine. Our students often gain entry to Russell Group universities including Oxbridge and Imperial. Course content: The course covers a complete A level grounding in the fundamentals of the subject. In the first year, you’ll cover familiar areas in more depth: mechanics, materials, electricity and waves, and exciting new topics: particles, quantum phenomena and material science. In year two, you’ll be introduced to topics including fields and nuclear physics, and choose from options such as astrophysics, electronics, medical physics, and engineering physics. The practical skills relating to how science works are integrated throughout the two years. Recent trips include visits to the Large Hadron Collider in Geneva and Astrium, an aerospace manufacturer. We often offer a number of enrichment activities such as research projects with universities and physics-related clubs. We also enter students for the British Physics Olympiad.
Entry Requirements
Checked against your grades — every rule traces to the school's published source.
| Requirement | Rule | You |
|---|---|---|
Combined Science | Grade 7-6 in Combined Science | — |
Biology Alternative route | Grade 6 in Biology | — |
Physics Alternative route | Grade 7 in Physics | — |
Chemistry Alternative route | Grade 6 in Chemistry | — |
Mathematics | Grade 7 in Mathematics | — |
English Language | Grade 5 in English Language | — |
As published by the school
Grades 7+6 in GCSE science combined trilogy OR grade 7 physics + 6 biology + 6 chemistry. Grade 7 in GCSE mathematics. Grade 5 in GCSE English language. BTEC science is not a suitable entry qualification for this course.
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Assessment
Exam - 2 hours - 34% Short and long answer questions, and 25 multiple choice questions First year content and periodic motion - 60 marks Exam - 2 hours - 34% Short and long answer questions, and 25 multiple choice questions Thermal physics, fields and nuclear physics. A knowledge of first year work and periodic motion is also assumed - 60 marks Exam - 2 hours - 32% Short and long answer questions Practical skills and data analysis - 45 marks An optional topic from: astrophysics, electronics, medical physics, engineering physics and turning points in physics - 35 marks
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