Course information
Physics
Cheltenham College - Gloucestershire
01242265600
Bath Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7LD
Course summary

Physics is a subject suitable for pupils who want to find out how things work in the physical world and enjoy applying their mind to solve problems. Pupils who take Physics at A Level have many options available to them for university study including Engineering, Physics and Material Science. The course is designed to develop the problem-solving ability of pupils and as such also lends itself to other careers such as law. This specification is designed to encourage candidates to: • Develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles of physics. • Gain hands-on practical and data analysis skills. • Appreciate how science works and its relevance beyond the laboratory. • See how physics links to other sciences and how the subject underpins important technologies. Physicists are encouraged to attend evening Science Society events, participate in the annual online Physics Brawl and compete in the British Physics Olympiad. The Cheltenham College Astronomical Society also meets several times throughout the year for stargazing activities.

Entry requirements

Grade 7 in Physics or 7/7 Double Award and Grade 8 in Mathematics.

How you'll be assessed

The Physics course is assessed by three exams, each of which lasts two hours. In the first of these, pupils study many of the core areas of Physics including mechanics, electricity, waves and materials as well as being introduced to more esoteric aspects such as particle and quantum physics. The second unit covers further mechanics, fields and nuclear physics. Paper 3 is about practical skills and data analysis as well as an optional topic, chosen individually depending on personal interests. Throughout the course, practical skills are developed such as experimental design, problem solving, processing data and evaluating their results including quantifying uncertainty. Pupils are required to achieve a level of practical competency that will have to be endorsed by their teacher to pass the course. 15% of the questions in the A Level examination will test practical skills.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth West
Local AuthorityGloucestershire
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeCo-Educational
ISI ReportView Report
Boarding FeeDay £33,990 - £35,190; Boarding £45,300 - £46,500
Sixth Form FeeUnknown
AddressBath Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7LD