Science - Physics
Entry Requirements
Either Combined Science grade 6-6 or Physics GCSE grade 6 and Mathematics grade 6 and English Language grade 6.
About This Course
Physics is the discipline of science that deals with the everyday working of things around us. It will open your eyes to a level of complex simplicity as to how the universe is and how everything around us works. How does my television work? How fast do I need to go to get into space? How does my phone get a signal? Studying Physics will enhance your ability to understand how to solve problems and engineer solutions to fix them, or create something completely new! With this firm knowledge of the working world and inherent problem-solving skills, Physics leads to great possibilities within all types of software, mechanical and electronic engineering.
Course Content & Assessment
This specification can be sat as either an AS one-year course or an A Level two-year course, although we recommend all students start by sitting the AS in year 12.
The Edexcel A Level Physics course is assessed through three written exam papers and a separate practical endorsement.
The exams cover the full breadth of the specification across mechanics, electricity, waves, fields, thermodynamics, particle physics, and more.
- Paper 1 (1h45, 90 marks) tests mechanics, circuits, fields, and particle physics – worth 30%.
- Paper 2 (1h45, 90 marks) covers materials, waves, thermodynamics, and space – also 30%.
- Paper 3 (2h30, 120 marks) is synoptic and focuses heavily on practical skills and data analysis – worth 40%.
Students will also complete at least 12 required practicals assessed internally. This leads to a separate "Pass" or "Not Reported" endorsement, which doesn't affect the grade but is essential for university lab-based courses.
What could this course lead to?
With an A Level in Physics, and possibly a degree, you could find yourself working in many diverse fields such as: Architect, Mechanical Engineer, Astronaut, Astronomy, Sound Engineering, Career in the RAF, Pilot, Lighting Engineer, Computer Engineering, Defence Industry or Telecommunications. Physics also opens many doors to those wishing to go into Accountancy and Finance as it is based on similar analytical skills.
