This gives you the opportunity to explore big questions – how did the universe begin and how will it end? What holds the parts of an atom together? Is there a theory of everything? It is ideal if you have an inquisitive mind and good problem-solving skills, with practical experiment work and research. You’ll apply your knowledge to new situations, grow an understanding of the links between theory and experimentation, and learn practical skills in the laboratory. You will also use maths in order to solve problems.
Units/Topics:
– The scientific process
– Practical skills in physics
– Foundation of physics
– Motion
– Work, engery and power
– Materials
– Newton’s law of motion and momentum
– Electricity
– Waves
– Quantum physics
– Thermal physics
– Circular motion and oscillations
– Gravitational fields
– Astrophysics and cosmology
– Capacitors
– Electric fields
– Electromagnetism
– Nuclear and particle physics
– Medical imaging
Work placement opportunities:
RAF Cosford, SDE Technology, The Smithers Group, Tesa Technology
Progressing to: Degree or higher education courses, often in conjunction with maths, chemistry, biology or geography
Aspirational careers: Government scientist, F1 motor racing engineer, astronaut, nuclear engineer, computer hardware specialist, aerospace engineer, laboratory manager
5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 including English and maths. 2 GCSEs in science grade 6, maths grade 6
