The Basics
- Physics is fundamentally an experimental subject
- Gain a deeper understanding of concepts in Physics
- Studying A Level Maths is preferable
- Opportunity to visit CERN in Switzerland
Is this course for me?
This course applies mathematics and provides numerous opportunities to use practical experiences to link theory to reality. It is a challenging course but, through hard work from the start by reading around the subject and practising questions, you will be successful.
What will I learn?
Year 12
You will study the structure of the atom and other areas of particle physics, along with more classical topics such as the properties of waves, electricity and Newton’s laws of motion.
Year 13
You will study the more complex and mathematically challenging topics of Simple Harmonic Motion and the Kinetic Model, as well as looking at magnetism, radioactivity and how gravity influences the orbits of the planets.
The option module looks at the turning points in Physics.
Anything else I need to know?
There is no coursework. Instead there are 12 assessed practical activities in each year of the A Level. These do not contribute to your final grade but you may be awarded a certificate from the exam board for showing competence in Experimental Physics. Many questions in the exams will relate to these practical activities. There are three exams for A Level Physics. These exams contain a mixture of short answer, long answer and multiple choice questions. All exams are taken at the end of the course. It is advisable that the Physics students also take A Level Maths. Students without A Level Maths will be expected to attend additional Maths for Physicists sessions.
Entry requirements
Specific entry requirements: Standard A Level entry criteria, including grade 6 in GCSE Physics, grade 5 in Maths and a grade 5 in Biology or Chemistry, or a 5 in Maths and 6/5 in GCSE Trilogy Science.
Future careers
Engineering, Astrophysics, Law
