Entry Requirements

You will need grade 6 in GCSE Physics or 66 in Combined Science plus grade 6 in GCSE Maths and grade 5 in GCSE English Language.

Introduction

A Level Physics is a key part of science and technology and it appeals to those people who want to understand the world around them. You will appreciate the workings of the Universe by studying the smallest to the largest phenomena. We will support you to aim for top grades and top universities through our Physics High Achievers+ Programme.

What you will study

  • Measurements and their errors
  • Particle Physics
  • Quantum Physics
  • Waves
  • Mechanics and materials
  • Electricity
  • Further mechanics and thermal physics
  • Magnetic Fields
  • Electric Fields
  • Gravitational Fields
  • Nuclear Physics
  • Astrophysics

Assessments

Three exam papers (scientific theory, applied mathematics, practical skills and data analysis).
Practical Element – a minimum of 12 practical tasks over two years

Course Support

  • Full set of resources including practice questions to consolidate learning and knowledge
  • Lab sessions to develop practical and data analysis skills
  • Weekly tutorials
  • Regular assignments and progress monitoring
  • Build model telescopes, engines, bridges, rockets and robotic arms in our ‘Tomorrow’s Engineers’ Programme

Enrichment Activities

  • Competitions including the Physics Olympiad
  • Future Engineers & Science Society Enrichment Programmes
  • Talks on cutting-edge research from the University of Liverpool
  • Physics High Achievers+ Programme
  • Trips and visits e.g. to London, Jodrell Bank, Daresbury Laboratories and CERN in Geneva

Science Society is a society for those students looking to study a Science related degree at Oxbridge or another prestigious university. View the SciSoc video

Facilities

2 fully equipped laboratories including:

  • Equipment for class practical work
  • Equipment for individual research investigations
  • Data logging equipment for real-time data capture
  • Lasers, microwave transmitters and receivers, spectrometers etc for wave/light experiments
  • Radioactive sources and detectors for radiation experiments
  • Oscilloscopes, electronics workstations, digital multimeters etc. for d.c. and a.c. circuits
  • Data projectors
  • Computer workstations, all students also have access to a computer suite

Progression

Physics graduates are in demand because of their analytical and problem-solving skills. Students develop skills that can be transferred to the world of work; from setting up a business to dealing with climate change.

Careers Opportunities

In the past, our students have entered a broad range of areas including engineering, medicine, architecture, computer science as well as physics.

Further Information

Physics Course Leaflet

Exam board course specification

Fantastic success for our Lower Sixth Physicists

Videos

Click below to hear what our students say about Physics at Carmel…

A-Level Physics video thumbnail
What Our Students Say

Physics at Carmel really challenges your ability and knowledge and strengthens your study skills and academic integrity. The course helps you to mature so you are ready for university or an apprenticeship.

There are also many amazing opportunities such as the trips to CERN and Jodrell Bank as well as many visits to universities and lectures. The department is very open and the tutors will always give up their time to help you.

Studying at Carmel is very different to going to a Sixth Form as you get to be yourself and it’s a great opportunity to meet different types of people and make new friends.

Katie Worrall

Physics Katie Worrall Archbishop Beck