Physics A Level 3

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED FOR SEPTEMBER 2026 ENTRY.

Entry Requirements - Please follow the link and download our Options Guide to view the entry requirements for Sixth Form and individual subjects https://www.queenelizabeths.kent.sch.uk/learning/sixth-form/thinking-about-joining-queen-elizabeths-grammar-school-for-sixth-form/

How to Apply -

Internals - Google Form - Speak to Mr Cowlam or Mrs Gossling

Externals - Through Kent Choices

https://www.queenelizabeths.kent.sch.uk/learning/sixth-form/applying-to-the-sixth-form/

You must select a minimum AND maximum of 5 subject choices:

Option A - 3 main subject choices* + an enhancement subject choice** + a reserve subject choice***

Option B - 4 main subject choices + a reserve subject choice

*a main subject choice is a full A Level subject e.g Mathematics/Geography/Physics/German etc
** an enhancement subject choice is either EPQ, Maths in Context or Trinity Acting Exams
***a reserve choice can be either a full A Level or another enhancement option

Physics

A Level

EDEXCEL Level 3 Advanced GCE in Physics

The Physics course allows for study by concept-led and context-led approaches and we will be using a combination of both approaches in order to give students a good general foundation in the principles that form the basis of our understanding of the universe.

Skills that will be developed:

Numeracy

Communication

ICT

Improving own learning and performance

Problem solving

Working with others

Practical skills

Skills related to ‘How Science works’

What will you learn?

Unit 1:

• Working as a Physicist
• Mechanics
• Electric Circuits
• Further Mechanics
• Electric and Magnetic Fields
• Nuclear and Particle Physics

Unit 2:

• Materials
• Waves and Particle Nature of Light
• Thermodynamics
• Space
• Nuclear Radiation
• Gravitational Fields
• Oscillations

There will be examinations on each of these units, as well as an overarching examination that brings all the topics covered together. Students will also be assessed separately for a ‘Science Practical Endorsement’. The Endorsement will not contribute to the overall grade for this qualification, but the result will be recorded on the student’s certificate.

Entry Requirements:
You must achieve a grade 6 or higher in GCSE Physics, or grade 6 or higher in both Science and Additional Science. You should also have achieved at least a grade 6 in Mathematics GCSE.

What happens when you have finished?

You could take this course with other advanced level courses such as Chemistry, Biology and in particular Mathematics. Opting to study Physics at A level will enable you to study a wide variety of subjects in Higher Education. The course will also help you develop the skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers across lots of industries are looking for. You can use your qualification to do degrees in the Physical Sciences or Engineering, but also any course with a mathematical content such as Accountancy or Economics.

You must achieve a grade 6 or higher in GCSE Physics, or grade 6 or higher in both Science and Additional Science. You should also have achieved at least a grade B in Mathematics GCSE.

Over half of all physicists work in Research and Development, Engineering, and Information Technology. Some physicists work on problems at the frontiers of knowledge; others tackle the challenging problems which arise in the application of physics to industrial and engineering problems. A physics degree can help you get a job in finance, telecommunications or the electrical industry. Physicists also work in medicine, astronomy, meteorology and teaching.