Physics

Any A Level subjects can be combined. A Levels can also be studied alongside a BTEC Level 3 Certificate.

You will study an AS Level in the first year of this course.

Physics is a stimulating, exciting and challenging subject. It is important, not only as a subject in its own right, but also as an essential element in all other natural science, engineering and technology courses. There is also a great deal of enjoyment and satisfaction to be derived from an understanding of the most recent developments in Physics research.

We study the AQA A Level Physics Syllabus (7408): It provides a seamless transition to A Level from previous studies and develops your interest and enthusiasm for Physics. This covers a wide range of topics from elementary particle physics to Newton’s laws; from nuclear physics to gravitational fields.

This course is ideal if you want to know how the natural world works in a mathematical way and what the fundamental forces and principles are which underlie the building blocks of the universe.

You will be taught through lectures, practical work, and problem solving. You will have access to two fully equipped physics laboratories.

Assessment is by written examinations which will include the assessment of your knowledge of practical procedures. In the first year you will sit two 90 minute exams and in the second year you will sit three 120 minute exams. In addition to the written papers, you will complete 12 required practicals throughout the course using a range of physics skills and measurement techniques. This will lead to a Practical Endorsement alongside your A Level.

What topics will I study?

During the two year course you will study the following topics:

• Measurements and their errors
• Particles and radiation
• Waves
• Mechanics, advanced mechanics and materials
• Electricity
• Thermal Physics
• Gravitational, electric and magnetic fields
• Nuclear Physics

One of the following detailed topics:

• Turning points in Physics
• Astrophysics

You will:

• Cover a wide range of topics from elementary particle physics to Newton’s laws of motion and gravity
• Gain great satisfaction and enjoyment from understanding the most recent developments in physics research
• Develop your logical thinking, problem solving and mathematical skills
• Carry out practical work in fully equipped physics laboratories

What experiences will I get?

There will be trips and guest speakers. You will be able to take part in the AS Physics challenge, the Physics Olympiad and the KS5 Physics Challenge.

This course can be combined with others and goes well with A Level Biology, Chemistry or Computer Science. Maths A Level is very highly recommended and essential for progression to university in Physics or Engineering. If you don’t take Maths A Level, the Level 3 Core Maths is available as an Extend option to support the mathematical aspect of the subject – although we can’t emphasise enough how recommended Maths A Level is with Physics.

Future Steps: You could progress to university, training or an Apprenticeship in Physics or Engineering. Physics is a great A Level for a range of mathematical and scientific careers including Architecture, Medicine, Computer Science and Geology. It is also a well-respected qualification for a range of professions such as law or management.

You will need eight GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language, and Maths (grade 6). You will also need a grade 6 in GCSE Physics or Double Award Science. If you have a grade 6 in Maths, a compulsory supplementary Maths course is provided – this requires attendance at an extra Maths lesson per week.

You will have access to new fully equipped laboratories and PCs in the Maths and Science Centre. You will have access to a Learning Resource Centre (LRC). Students have the opportunity to take part in many STEM enrichment activities.

There are some costs of materials and resources.