Course information
Physics
Monkton Senior School - Bath and North East Somerset
01225721100
Church Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath, BA2 7HG
Course summary

Physics is fundamental in explaining how the world around us works, from the structure of the proton to the movement of the galaxies. It illuminates our understanding of why the sun turns red in the evening, how we can speak across continents and why some bridges fall down. What will I learn? A key emphasis at A Level is to base learning on personal investigations of the physical world using practical work as much as possible. Increasingly, Information Technology is playing a crucial role in revolutionising Physics research. Hence, ICT is used extensively in the course, from data-logging to simulations through to analytical packages. Finally, it is also of paramount importance that you get the chance to experience cutting edge research and to meet leading scientists. Therefore, the Department runs regular trips to institutions such as CERN in Geneva, the largest particle accelerator in the world, and JET in Oxfordshire, currently the largest nuclear fusion reactor in Europe and the Airbus factory in Bristol.

Entry requirements

All offers are then subject to candidates achieving a minimum of seven GCSE Grades 9 - 4 (or equivalent), together with appropriate facilitating grades in subjects related to their choice of A level subjects (see 6th Form prospectus for more information). The most important requirement is a passion for understanding how the world works. On a more pragmatic level, students should have at least a grade 7 in Dual Award Science or Physics GCSE if taking the separate sciences. In addition, students need a grade 7 or above in Mathematics GCSE.

How you'll be assessed

In Year 12, there are topics such as forces and projectiles, electricity and the wave/particle model of light which introduces quantum physics to the student. The second year then examines the ideas behind astrophysics, particle physics, fields and medical physics. Students taking the full A Level sit three papers (two of 135 minutes and one of 90 minutes).

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth West
Local AuthorityBath and North East Somerset
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeCo-Educational
ISI ReportView Report
Boarding Fee£37,770 - £42,735
Sixth Form FeeDay £25,500 - £26,790
AddressChurch Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath, BA2 7HG