A Level Physics

Physics is the gateway to the Universe! Physics A level covers topics as diverse as the properties of fundamental elementary particles and astrophysical phenomena that may lead to understanding the origins of the Universe. It is also the basis for most technological developments and is important in helping us understand some of the most important and challenging problems of our time, such as climate change and energy generation. We currently run the AQA course taught using the content approach. The A2 year is also supplemented by a trip to CERN where students can see particle accelerators, while rubbing shoulders with multiple Noble Prize winners. The students spend three days in Geneva, experiencing Swiss culture and seeing the sights. It is an opportunity for them to experience how scientists collaborate on experiments, while also testing their recently acquired knowledge from Unit 4. Physics A level complements subjects such as Maths, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Technology and many others. It can lead to careers in research, engineering, medicine and is widely accepted by top Universities for entry to any number of courses. A range of traditional Physics areas with the emphasis being on applications such as: forces in buildings; movement in sport; waves in musical instruments; fields around planets; electricity in everyday life; electromagnetism and motors; heat and insulation in refrigerators; nuclear power using radioactivity and quantum physics.

Chelmer Valley Sixth Form minimum entry requirement plus a grade 7-7 in Combined Science. If studying GCSE Physics a grade 7 in Physics is preferable. A grade 7 in Mathematics and a grade 5 in English is required for both options.