Physics

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The Curriculum

Our Physics curriculum is crafted to instil a profound understanding of the fundamental principles governing the natural world. Rooted in the UK National Curriculum, our intent is to spark curiosity and inspire a lifelong fascination with the laws that govern matter, energy, and the universe.

The curriculum encompasses key areas:

  • Forces, motion, and energy
  • Waves, sound, and light
  • Electricity and magnetism
  • Particle model of matter and atomic structure
  • Space physics and astrophysics

Through a dynamic blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experimentation, our goal is to equip students with critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep appreciation for the role of physics in addressing real-world challenges. By fostering scientific enquiry and ethical considerations, we aim to prepare students for academic success and nurture a generation of innovative thinkers in the scientific community.

 

Key Stage 5

Course Code: A Level Physics OCR A H556
Exam Board Specification: http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-a-level-gce-physics-a-h156-h556-from-2015/

 

WHY PHYSICS? 

This exciting course provides insights into how the universe works. You will build on concepts covered in GCSE but in more depth and learn how these are applied in everyday and technological settings. The course embraces six modules: development of practical skills; foundations of physics; forces and motion; electrons, waves and photons; Newtonian world and astrophysics; and particles and medical physics. 

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 

  • Grade 6 GCSE Physics or Grade 6-6 GCSE Combined or Triple Science 
  • Grade 6 GCSE Mathematics 
  • Students who have studied Combined Science must complete additional preparatory work over the summer holidays. 

ASSESSMENT 

  • 37% – Paper 1 – Modelling Physics 
  • 37% – Paper 2 – Exploring Physics 
  • 26% – Paper 3 – Unified Physics 
  • Practical endorsement assessed during lessons (pass/fail). 

EXTRA AND SUPER CURRICULAR 

  • Help run Science Club and apply leadership skills to exciting projects and competitions. 
  • Trips including Laboratory Days at Bath University, Science Live with Prof Brian Cox in London, and RUH Bath for physics in medicine. 
  • Annual trip to CERN Hadron Collider in Geneva, Switzerland. 

FUTURE PATHWAYS 

University degrees in almost any course. Apprenticeships and careers in all branches of Engineering, Research, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Astronomy and finance. 

COMPLEMENTARY A LEVELS 

Maths, Further Maths, Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Computer Science, Music. 

 

Key Stage 5 Physics Curriculum Map