Physics
Collingwood College - Surrey
01276457600
Kingston Road, Camberley, GU15 4AE
Course summary

Physicists play a vital role in many technology based industries such as optoelectronics, nanotechnology, computing and renewable energy. Others work on investigating the universe, searching for new planets or looking for the remnants of the big bang. Others still go on to apply their knowledge in healthcare (medical physics) studying the processes of the Earth (geophysics) or the climate (meteorology). The knowledge and skills that studying physics develops are important in other areas as well. Predicting future market behaviour is vital in finance, and so a physicist’s ability to model complex systems is particularly valued in this sector, while a logical approach and ability to understand new technology is useful in law, for example, when patenting new inventions. Physics provides a broad training in skills that are valued by all employers; an ability to grasp concepts quickly, a determination to find coherent answers, along with problem-solving, analytical, mathematical and IT skills. Even if you decide that you don’t want to work in any physics-related industry, the skills and knowledge that you develop by studying physics will always help you in whichever area you go into.

Entry requirements

To study Physics at A-level you will need a minimum of 5 Grade 4+ (or equivalent) including Grade 6-6 in Combined Science or Grade 6 in GCSE Physics and Grade 6 in Mathematics. Experience shows that your chances of success are greater in this subject if you also study A-level Mathematics.

How you'll be assessed

This qualification is linear. Linear means that students will sit all the A-level exams at the end of their two-year course. Paper 1: • Measurements and their errors • Particles and radiation • Waves • Mechanics and materials • Electricity • Periodic Motion Written Exam: 2 hours 34% of A-level Paper 2: • Thermal Physics • Fields and their consequences • Nuclear physics Written Exam: 2 hours 34% of A-level Paper 3: • Practical skills and data analysis • Optional Unit Written Exam: 2 hours 32% of A-level

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth East
Local AuthoritySurrey
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressKingston Road, Camberley, GU15 4AE