Physics

Fourth Form (Years 7 and 8)

In the Fourth Form we follow the Exploring Science International 11-14 course from Pearson Education. In Lower 4, pupils study electricity, forces, and sound, and in Upper 4 they cover the physics of solids, liquids, and gases, light, and heat. These topics certainly appeal to this age group, and we nurture this enthusiasm by ensuring that the focus is on experimental technique and scientific thinking, rather than memorising large numbers of facts. Pupils acquire confidence in the laboratory where they develop habits of safe and accurate measurement, and they begin Lower 5 having developed the core skills needed to access GCSE content in the fifth form.

Fifth Form (Years 9, 10 and 11)

In Lower 5 all pupils study the Edexcel GCSE Combined Science course in their Physics, Chemistry and Biology lessons. As part of the GCSE options process from 2025, pupils entering Middle 5 choose to either continue with Edexcel Combined Science (two GCSEs) or to take separate Edexcel IGCSE Physics, Chemistry and Biology qualifications (three separate IGCSEs). Regardless of the route chosen, all pupils study a range of core physics concepts including forces and motion, electricity, magnetism, waves, radioactivity, energy, and states of matter. Pupils that pursue the separate sciences qualification will cover some additional topics not included in the Combined Science course for example astrophysics, static electricity and moments.



Please note that opting for Combined Science does not prevent pupils from taking physics at A Level, and choosing to follow separate sciences at GCSE does not offer any significant advantage in preparation for A Level study.


Sixth Form

At A Level we follow the OCR Physics A H556 specification.


In Lower 6 pupils continue to study topics that will be familiar from their GCSE course, but to a greater conceptual and mathematical depth. Subjects include the fundamentals of mechanics, electric circuits, and waves, culminating in an introduction to the intriguing and counter-intuitive world of quantum mechanics.


In Upper 6 pupils encounter thermal physics and gas behaviour, simple harmonic motion, gravitational fields, capacitors, electromagnetism, astrophysics, radioactivity, nuclear physics and its application to the field of medicine. We also run an annual trip to Sizewell B nuclear power station which is a fantastic opportunity for pupils to learn about the physics and engineering involved in the generation of electricity from the fission of uranium.



During the two-year course pupils maintain a laboratory book which forms the basis of their practical assessment, with the A Level grade being determined by three external exams at the end of Upper 6.


A Level Summary Information

FAQs

Do I need to study A Level Maths to take A Level Physics?

The answer to this frequently asked question is no, this is not a requirement, however we do emphasise that pupils should be competent in and enjoy using certain maths skills covered at GCSE, in particular rearranging equations, working with fractions, and graphing techniques. Consequently, we require pupils to achieve at least a grade 7 in both GCSE maths and physics to pursue the A Level course.


Why study A Level Physics?

A Level Physics develops analytical thinking, problem solving techniques, and numeracy skills highly valued by employers. It is a required A Level for many degree courses including Physics, Astrophysics, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Earth Sciences and some medical qualifications. It offers opportunities for careers in fields such as science and engineering, research, finance and education