Course Overview
Please note: you will make your selection of three A Levels once you have progressed into the application process.
Physics is a study of how the universe behaves. It involves the study of matter and its motion through space and time, along with related concepts such as energy and force. Physics aims to describe the function of everything around us, from the movement of tiny, charged particles to the motion of people, cars, planets and stars. In fact, almost everything around you can be described quite accurately by the laws of physics.
The course content covers the basis of how things work, from the constituent parts of atoms out to the extent of the universe. You will integrate the concepts studied with a range of practical experiments throughout each topic giving the course both an academic and practical focus. You will learn to apply your knowledge of the key concepts to solve problems in a range of different contexts and applications.
Physics is essential for access to physics and engineering courses. It is highly regarded for other subjects such as medicine, law and economics because of the thinking skills and problem solving involved.
There is some subject cross-over with Maths and Chemistry. Makes Maths, Physics and Chemistry a powerful combination to optimise your A Level grades
Topics may include:
- Development of practical skills in physics
- Physical quantities and units, making measurements and analysing data
- Motion, forces in action, work, energy and power, materials and momentum
- Charge and current, energy, power and resistance, electrical circuits
- Waves and quantum physics
- Thermal physics
- Circular motion and oscillations
- Gravitational fields, astrophysics and cosmology
- Capacitors, electric fields and electromagnetism
- Nuclear and particle physics and medical imaging.
You will need a calculator to help with the numerical aspects of this course. A standard scientific calculator will suffice. We recommend Casio models, which are available to purchase from the College online store.
Assessment Methods
This A Level is covered by three examinations:
- Total of 6 hours of examinations (2 x 2 hours 15 minutes and 1 x 1 hour 30 minutes) taken at the end of the course.
- A wide range of question types which include multiple choice, short answer and extended response questions.
Progression Options
This qualification can lead to STEM degrees, in a variety of Physics, Maths and Engineering subjects, and advanced apprenticeships in industry, including aerospace, nuclear power generation, electrical power distribution and weapons engineering.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in the science you wish to study or two 6s in double science, and grade 5 or above in English and maths.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
