Useful Information
Physics is the fundamental science that lies at the heart of modern engineering, technology, and medicine. The course follows the Edexcel A Level specification, with an emphasis on concepts and practical skills.
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Course Overview
To be successful in this course, students should:
- Have a wide range of interests as physics is a broad subject
- Have a can-do attitude and be resilient in the face of setbacks
- Enjoy mathematics and logical reasoning
- Always seek to understand the "why" behind concepts
Physics students should enjoy and excel at problem-solving and teamwork. They should be comfortable working with both large and small numbers, be proficient in simple algebra, and be able to use diagrams and other graphics to communicate their ideas effectively.
A Level students will need to complete all modules and take three exams at the end of the second year. Additionally, students will need to complete a practical endorsement in physics, which is a requirement for progressing to degree courses in the scientific field.
Module 1 – Development of practical skills in physics:
This module assesses practical skills in both a written examination and practical endorsement. It emphasizes the importance of practical skills in the study of physics and provides students with the opportunity to develop experimental methods and techniques for analyzing empirical data.
Module 2 – Working as a Physicist:
This module introduces important conventions and ideas that are fundamental to physics, such as physical quantities, S.I. units, scalars, and vectors, which are essential for effective communication within the scientific community.
Module 3 – Mechanics:
This module covers topics such as motion, forces, work, energy, power, and materials.
Module 4 – Electrons, waves, and photons:
Students will learn about electrons, electric current, electrical circuits, wave properties, electromagnetic waves, and key ideas of quantum physics.
Module 5 – Further Mechanics and Fields:
This module covers topics such as circular motion, oscillations, thermodynamics, and the behavior of electric, magnetic, and gravitational fields.
Module 6 – Nuclear Radiation and Space:
This section covers nuclear radiation, particle physics, and the exploration of space.
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Course Highlights
The College organizes educational experiences, including trips and visits, to help students apply their learning in real-world contexts. For example, students may visit St George’s teaching hospital to learn about the Medical Imaging Process (MRI scans). The College also hosts visiting speakers from Higher Education and Industry.
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Career Opportunities & Further Study
Physics graduates have a wide range of career pathways open to them including:
Research and development
Technical management
Finance
Banking
Computing
Software design
Energy
Health services
Media
Marketing and Teaching.
Many A Level Physics students go on to study Physics at degree level or pursue careers in Physics or applied areas such as Engineering.
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Assessment
A Level Physics students will study the general rules that underlie all of Science and will be trained to recognize, interpret, and apply these principles in various contexts.
Physics is a practical subject, and students will have the opportunity to gain confidence in handling technical equipment through experiments and observations.
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Entry Requirements
Students wishing to include A Levels in their program need to have (or expect to achieve) at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English at grade 6 and mathematics at grade 7.
Additionally, students will need a satisfactory school reference and meet the following minimum GCSE requirement: Core and Additional Science at Grade 7 or Grade 7 in Physics, and any other Science if taken.
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