Summary

Physics is at the forefront of our understanding of how the world works and what makes the universe tick. Within this course you will develop your analytical skills and learn about a wide range of scientific concepts and current thinking. Physics is the study of the whole range of science that deals with matter and energy and the relationship between them. It is a science subject, so practical work is an important element and will be assessed throughout the course. This leads to a practical endorsement alongside the full A-level. The six modules covered on the course are as follows: Module 1 – Development of practical skills in physics Module 2 – Foundations of physics; physical quantities and units; scalars and vectors; measurements Module 3 – Forces and motion; motion; forces in action; work, energy and power; materials; Newton’s laws of motion and momentum Module 4 – Electrons, waves and photons; charge and current; energy, power and resistance; electrical circuits; waves; quantum physics Module 5 – Newtonian world and astrophysics; thermal physics; circular motion; oscillations; gravitational fields; astrophysics Module 6 – Particles and medical physics; capacitors; electric fields; electromagnetism; nuclear and particle physics; medical imaging Year 1 physics content will be taught and examined in the first year of the course. The AS in Physics will be assessed by two written exams (each of 90 minutes) at the end of the first year. Year 2 physics content will be taught and examined over two years. The first-year content is identical to AS Physics. The A-level in physics will be assessed by three written exams (two of 135 minutes and one of 90 minutes) at the end of the second year.

How will I know how I am doing?

Year 1: Two 90-minute written exams Year 2: Two 135-minute written exams and one 90-minute written exam

What do I need to join?

To study this course, you will need 5 GCSEs at grade 4–9, including English and Maths. You must also have a grade 7 in GCSE Maths and GCSE Physics (or 7–7 in Combined Science); or 6 in Maths, plus a 6 in Physics (or 6–6 in Combined Science), plus an entrance exam. You should be studying AS Maths alongside AS Physics.

Work Experience

You will be required to do a minimum of 36 hours of work experience. This is usually completed in a week during your first year in term time, where you will have the opportunity to explore a career field which takes your interest. In the lead-up to this week, you will be asked to create an exciting CV during a group tutorial period. The aim of this activity is to give you an idea of what full-time employment is like and to help you think about which career you would like to follow.

What can I do next?

A-level physics is an important qualification for many careers. Many students go on to study at university, some to study physics, others to study a range of different courses including medicine, engineering, electronics, computing and accountancy. If studied at a degree level and beyond, this can result in almost guaranteed employment, as the demand for careers in the professions physics leads to is so extensive.