A-Level
Careers related to studying Physics:
If you choose to study Physics, you will cultivate a comprehensive understanding of the laws that govern every aspect of our lives, from the smallest particles to the entire universe, developing the key mathematical skills that underpin it. As a result, Physics students can be found in more or less every industry, filling a variety of roles – from engineer to academic, or accountant to radiologist.
You could consider careers in: medicine, engineering, scientific research, teaching, energy industry, nanotechnology, space exploration, computer game design, meteorology, and many more.
Course content:
Through studying this course, you will increase your mathematical and analytical skills, furthering your knowledge of the ever evolving world of physics. You will study both classical and quantum physics, developing an appreciation of the development of our understanding of the world around us, recreating some of the key discoveries in science and learning the skills to take physics into the 21st Century.
Entry requirements:
You must have achieved at least a grade 6-6 in Combined Science or grade 6 in Physics Triple Science and a grade 6 in Mathematics at GCSE.
It is beneficial to study A Level Mathematics alongside this course.
Subject specific events:
We endeavour to develop our students to be as ready university and the working world as much as possible. As such, we have fostered close links with universities to give students as much of a taste of university life as possible.
In Year 13 you will also have the opportunity to be taken on a guiding tour of CERN in Geneva, speaking with researchers and seeing parts of the site unavailable to the general public.
Methods of study:
There are four lessons per week which are taught by one subject specialists. Teaching groups tend to be between eight and twelve in number, and the course is taught through a range of teaching and learning strategies.
These strategies include group discussion (whole group, small group and pairs), practical sessions, mathematical skills lessons and research tasks. You will also prepare presentations (individual, paired or small group) and will report back on your findings.
Much of your work will be produced independently. However, there are frequent opportunities to share ideas either prior to, during or after written assignments. You should expect to complete approximately 4 hours of independent study outside of your lessons. This could include: reading, research, essay writing or other activities. In order for you to take full advantage of the course it is also recommended that you immerse yourself in the wider reading of any texts that interest, inspire or intrigue you.
Methods of assessment:
A-Level:
Three 120 minutes papers, two papers worth 34% and one paper worth 32%. The papers will cover the following topics:
- Particles and radiation
- Waves
- Mechanics and materials
- Electricity
- Further mechanics and thermal physics
- Electromagnetic and gravitational fields
- Nuclear physics
- Turning points in physics