Why study A level physics?
Do you want to investigate the limits of space, the beginning of time and everything in between? You will already have come across some of the concepts of physics at GCSE – forces, energy, waves, radioactivity, electricity and magnetism.
At A level you will start to see how these ideas work together, and begin to grasp the universal principles that apply to everything from the smallest atoms to the largest galaxies. Physics is an ideal subject to lead onto careers in the Armed Forces, engineering, chemistry, mathematics, the airline industry, and accountancy.
The fact that physics is a high-calibre A level makes students desirable to all areas of industry and commerce.
Level: A level
Board: AQA
Head of department:
Mr R Buttinger
Entry requirement: Grade 7 (double) or grade 6 (triple) GCSE physics; grade 7 GCSE maths; five grade 5s at GCSE including English
How is A level physics delivered?
| Year | Topics covered |
| 12 | Measurements and errors; particles and radiation; waves; mechanics; materials; electricity; required practicals |
| 13 | Thermal physics; fields (gravitational, electric, magnetic); nuclear physics; optional topic; required practicals |
How is A level physics assessed?
| Paper/component | Content | Assessment |
| Paper 1 (34%) | Measurements and their errors, Particles and radiation, Waves, Mechanics and materials, Electricity, and periodic motion | Written exam (2-hours) |
| Paper 2 (34%) | Thermal physics, Fields and their consequences, Nuclear physics + assumed knowledge from paper 1 | Written exam (2-hours) |
| Paper 3 (32%) | Section A: Practical skills and data analysis | Written exam (2-hours) |
| Section B: Optional topic (e.g., Astrophysics, Medical Physics, Engineering Physics, Turning Points, Electronics) | ||
| Practical endorsement (pass or fail) | Assessed through at least 12 required practical activities, demonstrating competency in practical skills | Teacher-assessed (reported separately) |
