A Level: Physics

A level Physics gives you the opportunity to explore the phenomena of the universe and to look at theories that explain what is observed. This subject combines practical skills with theoretical ideas to develop descriptions of the physical universe. You will learn about everything from kinematics to cosmology and many recent developments in fascinating topics, such as particle physics. If you are interested in the limits of space, the beginning of time and everything in between this is the subject for you. Physics is more than a subject – it trains your brain to think beyond boundaries.

****SPECIFICATION TO BE UPDATED FOR 2025/2026****

Year 12 content

• Working as a Physicist
• Waves and the particle behaviour of light
• Mechanics
• Materials
• Electric circuits

• Thermodynamics
• Electric, gravitational and magnetic fields
• Nuclear and particle physics
• Astrophysics

****SPECIFICATION TO BE UPDATED FOR 2025/2026****

Examination Board: AQA (7408)

The whole course is assessed at the end of Year 13

Three x 2 hour papers

Assessment of practical work

There is no coursework. Practical skills are assessed in the written papers.

There will be a set of 12 core-practical activities that students will complete. The students’ performance in this will be reported separately, with an endorsement to those who pass.

For more in depth details and information about the course, please visit – STP A-Level Physics

Students will be expected to have met St Paul’s entry requirements of 2 Grade 5’s and 4 Grade 4’s. A minimum of grade 4 in English and Maths is essential for all courses.

A-Level Physics has an additional entry requirement of a minimum grade 6 in Physics or 6/6 in Double Science and a minimum of grade 6 in Maths.

Where students do not meet grade criteria, individual cases will be discussed on results day.

Physics is a challenging and interesting subject which will helps students who take the subject at A-level to understand the world and universe around them. Example degree courses which generally favour Physics A-level include Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Computing, Electronics, Economics, Engineering, Environmental science, Forensic Science, Geology, Medicine, Medical Science, Meteorology, Optometry, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Sports Science.

Careers related to Physics include Acoustics Consultant, Aerospace Engineer, Astronomer, Electronics Engineer, Nuclear Engineer, Meteorologist, Oil and Gas Operations Manager and Physicist.