Physics

In the Sixth Form physics is offered at both Higher and Standard Level. Physics Higher Level is essential for further study in physics or engineering but both Higher and Standard Level are good preparation for any discipline in which the ability to reduce a problem to its essentials is important.

The core topics studied at both levels are: measurement and uncertainties; mechanics; thermal physics; waves; electricity and magnetism; circular motion and gravitation; atomic, nuclear and particle physics; and energy production. All pupils also study astrophysics as the optional component. In addition, Higher Level candidates study further wave phenomena; fields; electromagnetic induction; and quantum and nuclear physics. ICT is used extensively in data logging, data analysis and simulations and all pupils undertake an individual investigation of their own design.

A high proportion of our boys take part in the GCSE Physics Challenge, AS Physics Challenge and the British Physics Olympiad, in which they regularly win Gold, Silver and Bronze awards. There is a STEM Club for younger pupils and a Physics Society, which is led by Sixth Form physicists. The University of Birmingham is ideally placed for boys to attend talks and masterclasses, and former pupils, who are studying physics at university, and visiting speakers give talks at the School.

Boys in Year 9 go to GCSE Science Live and Sixth Form physicists have the opportunity to attend a week-long Particle Physics Summer School at the European Council for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva. We also encourage boys to apply for university experience courses, such as Headstart, as well as the Senior Physics Challenge.