A Level Physics

Please see entry requirements on each course description

Physics is the most fundamental science. It involves the study of the universe and its origins, and how matter behaves through space and time, from the very large to the very small.

It seeks to explain how the physical world operates through Laws and the concepts of forces and energy. Having A Level Physics will open up the doors to a great variety of courses at University including Engineering, Mathematics, Economics, Physics and Architecture. It is also looked upon favourably for those wishing to enter business and finance as the analytical and problem skills you develop are well sought after.

• Foundations of physics: dimensional analysis with Scalars and Vectors.
• Forces and motion: Newton’s Laws, projectile motion, work energy and power, car safety and material properties.
• Electrons, waves, and photons: Kirchoff’s Laws, Quantum Physics, wave phenomena, and electrical circuits.
• Newtonian world and astrophysics: field forces including gravitational, electric and magnetic fields, higher level mechanics and cosmology.
• Particles and medical physics: nuclear physics and applied physics in medicine.

What Can I Expect In Lessons?

Certain sections of the course will require more practical work than others but you can expect to spend around 75% of your time in theoretical lessons and 25% of your time in practical lessons. Questioning in Physics is essential to improve understanding and for this reason, group work is encouraged but you will also need to be a confident independent learner. Challenging yourself and each other is the best way to improve your grasp of a new concept.

GCSE Physics Grade 6 or 6,6 in Combined Science. In addition, a Grade 5 in Mathematics is required with a Grade 6 strongly preferable. You will also require a grade 5 in English Language.

Students studying the A Level programme would be expected to be working towards University places or Higher Apprenticeships (Level 4). Having A Level Physics will open up the doors to a great variety of courses at University including Engineering, Mathematics, Economics, Physics and Architecture. It is also looked upon favourably for those wishing to enter business and finance as the analytical and problems skills you develop are well sought after.