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Physics A Level

Dereham Sixth Form College

Crown Road, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 4AG

GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent
Level 3
Science and Mathematics

Available start dates

Available start dates

Tuesday, 01 September 2026
Dereham Sixth Form College
2 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours
Block A

Application Instructions

Please note that applications to the sixth form close on Wednesday 14th January 2026. If you wish to make an application after this date please contact the sixth form office at office@derehamsixthform.norfolk.sch.uk or call 01362 696884.

For more information about a place at Dereham Sixth Form College for September 2026, please visit the website - www.dsfc.org.uk

Course Instructions

Most students will choose the equivalent of 3 A Levels but in some circumstances a maximum of 4. These are subjects that will continue for the full two years. Select only one subject from each option block (choosing more than 1 course from the same block will delay your application as courses from each block are timetabled at the same time). All courses are equivalent to 1 A Level except where specified differently below.

Dereham Education & Soccer Academy Including BTEC Diploma in Sport (equivalent to three A Level subjects, no other subject choices required).

If your choice of subjects are not available due to limitations of the blocks, please email us with the details: office@derehamsixthform.norfolk.sch.uk

Course Details

The Physics course gives a content-led, flexible approach where the specification is divided into topics, each covering different key concepts of physics. As you progress through the course you will build on your knowledge of the laws of physics, applying your understanding to solve problems on topics ranging from sub-atomic particles to the entire universe. For A Level, the Practical Endorsement will also support the development of practical skills.

We follow the OCR Physics A specification which
aims to encourage learners to:

  • Develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other.
  • Develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods.
  • Develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematics and problem solving skills.
  • Develop your interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers associated with the subject.
  • Understand how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.

The Physics Practical Endorsement consists of twelve pieces of work which build up to a portfolio of evidence.

The structure of the course is as follows:

  • Development of practical skills in physics
  • Foundations of physics
  • Forces and motion
  • Electrons, waves and photons
  • Newtonian world and astrophysics
  • Particles and medical physics

Assessment

Component One: Modelling Physics (assesses content from modules 1, 2, 3 and 5 above) consists of a written examination lasting 2 hours 15 minutes. It is worth 100 marks, 37% of the total A Level.

Component Two: Exploring Physics (assesses content from modules 1, 2, 4 and 6) consists of a written examination lasting 2 hours 15 minutes. It is worth 100 marks, 37% of the total A Level.

Component Three: Unified Physics (assesses content from all modules) consists of a written examination lasting 1 hour 30 minutes. It is worth 70 marks, 26% of the total A Level.

Practical Endorsement in Physics: this is a non-exam assessment.

Entry requirements

Minimum 66555 including 6 in Physics (or Combined Science) and 5 in Mathematics.


For more courses like this, check our courses page.