Physics A Level 3

For students applying from other schools please see the information below.

For existing students at OPGS - you will be applying internally and will receive separate instructions

Applications Open - 11th December 2025

Applications Close - 30th January 2026

Entry Requirements:-

Students achieving a minimum of at least six GCSEs (9 – 5) of which at least four are at a grade 6 (or equivalent).

In addition, students must meet subject entry requirements, which in most cases require a minimum of Grade 6 in the subject to be studied, or related subjects. Some subjects will require a grade 7 or higher. Please see school website (https://www.opgs.org) for entry requirements needed for individual A level subjects.

Students must also achieve a minimum of a grade 5 in English Language and Mathematics.

Typically, we would expect students following essay-based subjects to gain at least a grade 6 in English Language and students following scientific courses to gain at least a grade 7 in Mathematics.

The school shall determine which grades at 6 are required when A level subjects requested have not been taken at GCSE Level.

Priority will be given to existing pupils transferring from Year 11 who meet the entrance criteria

How to Apply

Students should select three or four A level subjects and include a 4th/5th as a reserve subjects. Please list your subjects in priority order and indicate which is your reserve choice.

Subject Choice

In choosing your subjects for A level you need to find out about the syllabus, examination requirements, coursework and the approach to study. Choose subjects that interest you and think carefully about the range and combination of subjects you would like to study. You may also wish to consider requirements for Higher Education or career paths.

Students should also note that the school cannot guarantee courses will run if there are not enough applicants. It is also possible that, in some subjects, numbers will have to be limited.

This is a linear course which will be assessed at the end of two years of study. The course is designed with a focus on being relevant to real world experiences and to prepare students for future studies in science or engineering.

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• Module 1 - Development of practical skills in physics

• Module 2 - Foundations of physics

• Module 3 - Forces and motion

• Module 4 - Electrons, waves and photons

• Module 5 - Newtonian world and astrophysics

• Module 6 – Particles and medical physics

Students are assessed by end of module tests, independent work, practical work and homework.

External Assessment

The course will be externally assessed by three papers at the end of year 13.

Paper 1 assesses Modules 1, 2, 3 & 5 lasting 2 hours 15 minutes and accounts for 37% of the qualification.

Paper 2 assesses Modules 1, 2, 4 & 6 lasting 2 hours 15 minutes and accounts for 37% of the qualification.

Paper 3 assesses all 6 modules and last 1 hour 30 minutes and accounts for 26% of the qualification.

Practical Endorsement: Pupils will complete a minimum of 12 required practicals (known as PAGs – Practical Activity Groups) to demonstrate key practical skills. These do not affect the grade achieved, but are needed to be completed so that the exam board will award a grade based on the examination results only.

Six 9-5 GCSE grades with at least four at grade 6

A minimum of a grade 5 in English Language and Mathematics

Grade 7 in GCSE Physics or 6-7 in Double Science GCSE

Typically, we would expect students following essay-based subjects to gain at least a grade 6 in English Language and students following scientific courses to gain at least a grade 7 in Mathematics.

You could take this course with other advanced level courses such as Chemistry, Biology or Electronics to prepare for higher education in a science related subject or more general higher education courses. With further training, you could go into a job related to Physics such as Science Technician or Electronics Engineer. The course will also help you develop the skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers across lots of industries are looking for.

The course enables students to go on to degree level studies at university, particularly Physics and Engineering and is highly valued by business and commerce. It also provides a stimulating experience for students who might not pursue the subject further.