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Physics
Course Information
Course TypeSixth Form Centre
Course LevelA Level
Awarding BodyAQA
Entry requirements
- GCSE Physics grade 6 or above.
- GCSE Combined Science grade 6/6.
- GCSE Maths grade 6 or above.
- An average GCSE score of 5.50 or higher.
Meet your teachers
Overview
If the mysteries of our universe fascinate you, if the world about you and how it works captures your imagination, then studying Physics could be perfect for you.
At Holy Cross we have a wide-ranging course which has received great feedback from the students who have studied with us.
Your future
Whether you want to go on to study Physics/Engineering at university or simply want to learn more about how our world works while gaining some invaluable skills along the way, Physics A Level will set you up well for your future.
A Physics qualification is highly valued by universities and employers alike. From astrophysics to engineering, from the energy industries to healthcare - Physics opens up a huge range of potential career choices.
Even if you’re considering another career area, A Level Physics offers a firm foundation for building future knowledge and skills.
A Level Physics is useful or an essential for a wide range of careers including all branches of engineering, careers in scientific research, medical physics, electronics, meteorology, astrophysics, environmental science and geophysics.
What we'll study
The course is a great introduction to all the fundamental topics in Physics.
The first section of the course covers topics you will have studied at GCSE – but you’ll have the opportunity to study them in much more detail than you have before.
Towards the end of your first year, you will study two unfamiliar and exciting topics – particle physics and quantum phenomena. What is antimatter? Can particles behave like waves? How can we use the light emitted from a gas to show that the universe is expanding?
You’ll explain all this and more! In your second year, you will study more fascinating topics and answer many different questions: How does the Earth’s rotation affect the reading on your bathroom scales?
How fast do I need to be moving to completely escape the Earth’s gravitational field? Would a space explorer come home younger or older than their twin who they left on Earth? What does E = mc2 mean?
Year 1 topics: Mechanics Materials Electricity Waves Quantum phenomena Particle physics
Year 2 topics: Periodic motion Thermal physics Gravitational, electric and magnetic fields Nuclear physics Turning Points in Physics Questions throughout the course are a mix of both numerical and qualitative.
The course is highly mathematical, but you also need to be able to explain your reasoning clearly – maths and language skills are both very important. During your two years of study, you will also enjoy numerous in-class practicals, allowing you to see some of the key concepts in action.
How you'll be assessed
At the end of the two year course, students will sit three exams.
Subjects that combine well
Maths, Biology, Chemistry, Theology, Philosophy & Ethics, Sociology, Psychology, English (Language or Literature), Law, Business, Economics.
Contact us to discuss this course
If you'd like to discuss taking this course, please contact J.Couldridge, Curriculum Leader: