Overview
“Physics is really nothing more than a search for ultimate simplicity, but so far all we have is a kind of elegant messiness.”
― Bill Bryson, A Short History of Nearly Everything
Staff
- Dr Terri Cunningham
- Mrs Margaret Morrow
- Mr Paul Murphy
Facilities
2 fully equipped Physics laboratories
Studying Physics deepens our understanding of the smallest detail of the world around us. Physicists are at the forefront of the pursuit of solutions to some of the biggest questions facing science and technological sectors today. Physicists today are at the cutting edge of innovation and research across a broad range of areas in science and technology.
Key Stage 3
Pupils complete their exploration of Key Stage 3 Physics in Year 10 with a specialist teacher for 2 periods each week. Topics covered include Density, Earth & Space, Alternative Sources of Energy, Forces and Motion, Levers, Centre of Mass and Hooke’s Law. Throughout Key Stage 3 there is strong focus on developing practical, research and ICT skills.
GCSE
Pupils follow the CCEA GCSE specification. They can either take Physics as an individual subject or as part of a Double Award Science course for GCSE.
Results: GCSE Physics
2020 A*-B 90% A*-C* - 100%
2019 A*-B 90% A*-C - 100%
2018 A*- B 100%
A-Level
This qualification is for students with an interest in science and strengths in physics, maths, chemistry or computer science at GCSE. It is best suited to students who aspire to university level education in a broad range of related disciplines from physics research to medicine.
Students develop competence in a range of research, practical problem solving and mathematical skills. All of these are highly regarded in further and higher education as well as in the workplace.
Specification
Students can take:
- the AS course as a final qualification; or
- the AS units plus the A2 units for a full GCE A level qualification.
Content Overview
In the AS units, students learn about the physical quantities required in all branches of the subject. They extend their understanding and application of Newtonian mechanics and electricity. Students use a wave model to explore aspects of light and sound. They also investigate the concept of quantum physics. In the section on astronomy, students learn about the size and age of our universe.
Students who continue to A2, explore circular and oscillatory motion. They investigate the deformation of solids under the action of a force and consider the important engineering consequences. Students use the kinetic model to explain the behaviour of gases. They also undertake a practical investigation of the concept of heat capacity and one aspect of heat flow. They explore atomic and nuclear physics and study models and the instability of nuclides, leading to important social and economic considerations for modern society.
Results:GCE Physics
2020 A*-A 100%
2019 A*-B 20% A*-C - 60%
2018 A*-A 67% A*-B 100%
