Physics

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what our students say

"I chose to study physics because I really enjoyed it at GCSE, and required 3 science or maths a levels to apply to the course I wanted at university. One of the things I like best about it is how engaging and fun the lessons are! Next year I'm planning to study veterinary medicine at university. This subject has enabled me to partake in lots of extracurricular activities I wouldn’t have done otherwise, helping me to build my skills for the next stage of my life."

Sunita Garg

Exam Board: Edexcel

Units and brief summary of content

Physics at this level covers traditional concepts such as forces and motion, electricity, materials and waves as well as post twentieth century developments such as radioactivity, quantum physics, particle accelerators, astrophysics and how these modern ideas link to medicine, sport, food technology, astrophysics, particle physics, music and archaeology.

The course builds on concepts and skills developed at GCSE and aims to show students how Physics can be applied to the world around them.

The course is assessed by means of end of course exams and a separate practical element.

A Level

Unit 1 (30% of A Level) Advanced Physics 1

Unit 2 ((30% of A Level) Advanced Physics 2

Unit 3 (40% of A Level) General and Practical Principles in Physics

Science Practical endorsement (marked separately)

Who should consider Physics?

Those who enjoy thinking logically about the world around them, enjoy solving problems and investigating relationships practically and mathematically. Subjects that complement Physics are Maths, Chemistry, Biology, P.E. and Electronics. However, a number of students do study Physics successfully independently of these. If you wish to study Physics to A Level, then A Level Maths is not a requirement, but it is essential for Physics at university level. Students who study Maths will find Physics a good complementary choice.

Possible career opportunities

Physics provides you with a qualification which equips you with many desirable skills that are relevant to a wide range of professions. Careers where Physics is useful include Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Maths, Teaching, Engineering, Earth Sciences, Meteorology, Accounting, Sports Science etc. The combination of practical skills, together with logical and mathematical ability make Physics a desired and respected qualification for many professions as it provides many transferable skills.

Entry requirements

Entrance requirements are a minimum of a grade 6-6 in GCSE Combined Science or grades 666 in GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry and GCSE Physics. A minimum of a grade 6 in higher tier Maths is also required.

Contact Mrs Susan Mighall CPhys MInstP, Head of Department

mighalls@rugbyhighschool.co.uk