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Physics

Physicists try to explain how everything works – from the innermost secrets of the atom to the wonders of the universe. Within the last 500 years physicists have begun to explain various phenomena. Galileo’s observations and Newton’s research brought a basic understanding of nature closer to us. Now we are on the brink of exciting new dimensions in astrophysics and particle physics, which are beginning to unravel some of the most perplexing mysteries of our world.

Physics strengthens and broadens the girls’ level of understanding of the world. Girls need to be relatively confident in mathematics and the manipulation of graphs, whilst also being adept at practical work. They learn how to assess a problem logically and systematically and then describe a clear solution. The courses offered are designed to be demanding but enjoyable, with a considerable emphasis on experimental work.

We have a dedicated physics laboratory, which is also used for science club.

GCSE

At AQA GCSE level, science is a core subject. We offer separate GCSE physics, as well as the physics strands of core science and additional science.

Energy, radioactivity, origins of the universe and waves are all covered within the core syllabus. Additional topics include atomic fission and fusion, forces and motion and electricity. As part of the separate GCSE physics, moments, circular motion, mirrors and lenses, sound, motors, generators and transformers and stellar evolution are also covered.

AS and A-level

At AS and A2, we follow the OCR Physics A specification. This means at AS we cover forces and motion, electrons and photons and waves. At A-level we include forces, fields and energy, unifying concepts (synoptic paper), and cosmology*.

*Topic usually chosen from programme of study.