Course description
This course involves challenging ideas and taking part in discussions, demonstrations and practical activities. You will study a range of topics from the very small–quarks inside the atom, to the very large – the structure and evolution of the universe. Some topics you will have touched on at school, and some you will encounter as new topics.
- Mechanics and Newton's Laws
- Electric circuits and components
- Waves, quantum physics and wave-particle duality
- Gravitational fields and astrophysics
- Electric and magnetic fields
- Nuclear and particle physics
If you enjoy trying to explain the world around you, want to know what the universe is made of and how it works, then this subject could be suitable for you.
Modern science laboratories and pleasant surroundings help you study. Supportive teaching, in small study groups with excellent resources, help you achieve.
Upcoming start dates
Suitability - Who should attend?
5 GSCEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths. A GCSE in double Science or Physics at grade 6 is essential.
You cannot study Physics on its own, you must also study Maths A Level alongside it.
Outcome / Qualification etc.
Physics is a well-respected A Level and can lead to many different degrees and careers in ICT, engineering, optometry, medicine or biomedical sciences, pharmacy or non-science related areas such as economics.
Training Course Content
Specialist Academic Skills
- Numeracy, Literacy and ICT skills including the use of excel
- Practical skills: planning an experiment, observing and recording data, analysing and evaluating data, plotting graphs.
- Use of data logger
Essential Skills for Progression
- Good problem solving skills
- Mathematical Skills
- Good communication: written and verbal
- High levels of organisation
- Logic
Subject Specific Enrichment
- Royal society summer exhibition
- Taster day at Surrey University
- Talks / lectures at Surrey University
- Talks from previous students
Course delivery details
Practical activities, research, presentations, discussions and quizzes. You will be assessed with regular tests and mock examinations. Homework: Exam questions and end of unit tests are essential preparation for exams. Background reading, preparation for upcoming lessons and condensing lesson notes to revision aids (such as mind maps) will be part of your weekly routine. Practical skills are practised in class, but homework will be set on analysing and evaluating data. You must be prepared to research and deliver presentations on relevant topics.
You will be given a copy of the Data, Formulae and Relationships booklet, that you are given in examinations, to work from so that you are completely familiar with it.
Expenses
Physics students require a textbook, scientific calculator and a memory stick.
In July all of the students have the opportunity to go to the Royal Society Summer Exhibition which is a showcase for research and innovation in the industry and university. There are also regular interesting lectures at Surrey University to attend.
All 16-19 year olds on full-time programmes will be required to retake GCSE English and Maths or to undertake Functional Skills, if they have not already attained the equivalent of a GCSE grade C in these subjects, every year of their course, until they complete their studies.
Activate Learning
Activate Learning is a forward-thinking education group that aims for far-reaching, progressive change and impact through learning. We work with learners as individuals, helping them make the choice of course and career pathway that’s right for them. Our mission is to provide work-ready talent for business, and...