Physics

The Physics teaching programme is designed to develop a strong foundation of practical skills, analytical thinking, and a deep understanding of the laws that govern the universe—from the tiniest particles to the vastness of space. Through hands-on experiments and real-world applications, students explore how Physics shapes modern technology, engineering, and our understanding of the world around us, highlighting its crucial role in today’s fast-moving scientific and technological society.

Facilities

Science lessons are taught in twelve modern laboratories, fully equipped for all school practical activities.

Physics A level

Course details

OCR Physics A

This course covers the basis of how things work, from constituent parts of atoms out to the extent of the universe. Concepts that are studied are integrated with a range of practical experiments throughout each topic, giving the course both an academic and practical focus. The course incorporates both Astrophysics and Medical Imaging and covers the knowledge and understanding necessary to progress to STEM degrees and careers.

During Year 12, students will complete four modules of study:

Module 1: Development of practical skills in physics
Module 2: Foundations of physics
Module 3: Forces and motion
Module 4: Electrons, waves and photons

Then in Year 13, they will complete two further modules of study:

Module 5: Newtonian world and astrophysics
Module 6: Particles and medical physics

Students will gain practical skills throughout the course. These are assessed in the written examinations and in the practical endorsement. The practical endorsement is awarded based on completion of a minimum of 12 assessed practical activities carried out over the two years of the course.

Link to course specification

Assessment

Exam (2.25 hrs)

Exam

(2 hrs 15 mins)

Modules 1, 2, 3 and 5

37% of the

qualification

Exam (2.25 hrs)

Exam

(2 hrs 15 mins)

Modules 1, 2, 4 and 6

37% of the

qualification

Exam (1.5 hrs)

Exam

(1 hr 30 mins)

Modules 1 - 6

26% of the

qualification

Student quotes

“The best thing about Physics is the practical lessons and learning how the world around us works.”

“You have to work hard outside of class, but there are lots of resources and help available from the teachers.”

Enrichment opportunities

Physics A Level students benefit from a wide range of exciting enrichment opportunities designed to bring the subject to life beyond the classroom. Throughout the year, students take part in visits and talks at renowned science institutions such as the Royal Institution, London and Surrey universities, and local museums and sites of scientific interest. A highlight of the course is the chance to visit CERN in Switzerland—the world’s largest particle physics laboratory—for a unique insight into cutting-edge research on the fundamental nature of the universe.

Students can also take part in prestigious national competitions like the Physics Olympiad, which challenges and stretches their problem-solving abilities. In addition, there is the opportunity to work with ORBYTS, a research project run by PhD students from UCL. As part of this programme, students analyse real images from a Mars orbiter to search for water signatures on the planet’s surface. They learn to code, interpret scientific data, and contribute to genuine research, culminating in a visit to UCL to present their findings—potentially identifying a past Martian lake site.

Progression

A Level Physics is a highly respected qualification, valued for its academic challenge and the wide range of skills it develops—including problem-solving, analytical thinking, and mathematical reasoning. It opens the door to a broad spectrum of university courses and careers, from core Physics degrees and specialist fields like astrophysics, quantum mechanics, medical physics, and electronics, to engineering, computer science, and space science. Physics also provides a strong foundation for careers in emerging industries such as renewable energy, robotics, and AI, as well as in sectors like finance, data analysis, and business management, where logical thinking and technical understanding are in high demand.