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A Level

Physics

A Level Physics is a key part of science and technology and it appeals to those people who want to understand the world around them. You will appreciate the workings of the Universe by studying the smallest to the largest phenomena. We will support you to aim for top grades and top universities through our Physics High Achievers+ Programme.

Entry Requirements

You will need grade 6 in GCSE Physics or 66 in Combined Science plus grade 6 in GCSE Maths and grade 5 in GCSE English Language.

Exam Board Specification

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Course Leaflet

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What you will study

Measurements and their errors
Particle Physics
Quantum Physics
Waves
Mechanics and materials
Electricity
Further mechanics and thermal physics
Magnetic Fields
Electric Fields
Gravitational Fields
Nuclear Physics
Astrophysics

Student using hairdryer to make a windmill move

Assessments

Three exam papers (scientific theory, applied mathematics, practical skills and data analysis).
Practical Element – a minimum of 12 practical tasks over two years

Course Support

Full set of resources including practice questions to consolidate learning and knowledge
Lab sessions to develop practical and data analysis skills
Weekly tutorials
Regular assignments and progress monitoring
Build model telescopes, engines, bridges, rockets and robotic arms in our ‘Tomorrow’s Engineers’ Programme

Enrichment Activities

Competitions including the Physics Olympiad
Future Engineers & Science Society Enrichment Programmes
Talks on cutting-edge research from the University of Liverpool
Physics High Achievers+ Programme
Trips and visits e.g. to London, Jodrell Bank, Daresbury Laboratories and CERN in Geneva

Science Society is a society for those students looking to study a Science related degree at Oxbridge or another prestigious university. View the SciSoc video

Facilities

2 fully equipped laboratories including:

Equipment for class practical work
Equipment for individual research investigations
Data logging equipment for real-time data capture
Lasers, microwave transmitters and receivers, spectrometers etc for wave/light experiments
Radioactive sources and detectors for radiation experiments
Oscilloscopes, electronics workstations, digital multimeters etc. for d.c. and a.c. circuits
Data projectors
Computer workstations, all students also have access to a computer suite

Progression

Physics graduates are in demand because of their analytical and problem-solving skills. Students develop skills that can be transferred to the world of work; from setting up a business to dealing with climate change.

Male student sat in science classroom. St helens college

Careers Opportunities

In the past, our students have entered a broad range of areas including engineering, medicine, architecture, computer science as well as physics.

Physics students studying in the classroom.

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“Coming to Carmel was the best decision I ever made, I’ve met wonderful people and really developed in both my personal and academic life. The teachers have been a joy to learn from and get to know, I can’t recommend here enough.

As part of the Physics High Achievers, I feel it has helped me further develop my subject knowledge and skills, pushing me in all aspects of the course and preparing me for the higher level.”

Now studying Astrophysics with a year abroad at the University of Liverpool

Christian Mackenzie

Cardinal Heenan