Physics
Physics looks at some of the most fascinating and challenging aspects of Particle Physics, Quantum Phenomena and Turning points, a topic referring to all theories that have changed Physics across the centuries.
Practical work is at the heart of Physics and features heavily within the A Level curriculum; pupils will have to keep a practical lab book and will be assessed on their investigative skills in a written exam.
The Physics A Level course content is split into three sections, taught across the two years of the course. Pupils in the Upper 6th also do an optional topic; the school believes that the historical study of some of the key discoveries in this subject is the most suitable as this offers pupils a deeper understanding of how science works.
To find out more about Physics at GCSE Level, please see our GCSE Science page.
Curriculum
A Level - Physics
A Level Physics not only expands on the topics covered at GCSE but goes on to look at some of the most fascinating and challenging aspects of this subject, including Particle Physics, Quantum Phenomena and Turning Points, a topic referring to all theories that have changed Physics across the centuries.
Potential pupils will need to have achieved a 7 in GCSE Physics or 7-7 in Double Award Science and should be confident in using Mathematics, a 7 is recommended at GCSE.
Find out more about our Physics A Level, including course content and assessment, here: 6th Form Subject Options Brochure.
Enrichment
In the Science Department, learning does not stop when pupils leave the classroom, and we provide a multitude of extra activities for interested pupils to get involved with. We believe that it is vital that pupil enthusiasm be fuelled, and that some of the best learning happens outside of the classroom when pupils are passionate about the subjects they are studying.
Physics-based activities have included astronomy workshops; the Bloodhound engineering project; trips to the Big Bang Fair, McLaren and Rutherford Appleton Laboratory; building and design projects [previous 6th Form pupils built a functioning Ruben’s Tube] and 6th Form physicists compete in the Physics Olympiad.
In addition to subject-specific activities and events, the department facilitates an ever-evolving programme of activities designed to inspire and enthuse. Recent examples of these include:
- Minecraft STEM Club: developing understanding of science-based ideas and concepts through modelling and building
- 6th Form Science Journal Club: provides opportunities for scientists at all levels to develop critical reading skills by evaluating scientific literature and thereby improving their scientific literacy, introducing them to new concepts and techniques, and, most importantly, improving confidence and communication skills.
- Local trips: Science Museum, Royal Institution, GCSE Science Live
- All 6th Form scientists and psychologists attended the annual UNESCO conference.
