Physics Higher Level International Baccalaureate group 4 subject

Applications Open - 3 November 2025

Applications Close - 23 January 2026 (This is the official deadline, when planning for the new timetable will begin; however, applications will still be accepted after this date.)

Entry Requirements

IBCP: 3 x Grade 6 & 2 x Grade 5 (inc English & Maths)

IBDP: 6 x Grade 6 & 2 x Grade 5 (inc English & Maths)

IB course option: 6 x Grade 6 & 2 x Grade 5 (inc English & Maths)

How to Apply - Please apply via KentChoices

The course will encourage students to develop an interest in, and enthusiasm for, the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers in physics. Students should appreciate how societies make decisions about scientific issues and how science contributes to the economy and society within a global context. They should develop a good understanding of how different areas of the subject relate to each other and how physics relates to other scientific disciplines within an overall scientific method. They should appreciate the possibilities and limitations of science and scientists, as well as the moral, social and ethical implications of science and technology. They should develop an ability to analyse, evaluate and synthesise information both individually and collectively. They should have an understanding of, and be able to use, scientific facts and concepts, terminology, methods and means of presentation. They should construct and evaluate hypotheses, predictions, scientific methods and techniques. They should demonstrate the personal qualities associated with successful scientific endeavour: integrity, cooperation, perseverance, responsibility and imagination. In addition they should gain sufficient practical and manipulative skills necessary to carry out scientific investigations.

All students will follow the core course which comprises: measurements and uncertainties, mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity and magnetism, circular motion and gravitation, atomic, nuclear and particle physics, energy production.

In addition higher level students will undertake: wave phenomena, fields, electromagnetic induction, quantum and nuclear physics.

Additionally students will study astrophysics.

Terminal examinations:

Standard level

• Paper 1 — 45 mins multiple choice;
• Paper 2 — 1 hr 15 mins structured response,
• Paper 3 — 1 hr structured response on options

Higher level

• Paper 1 — 1 hr multiple choice;
• Paper 2 — 2 hrs 15 mins structured response;
• Paper 3 — 1 hr 15 mins structured response on options

Internal assessments

These will constitute 20% of the final assessment in both standard level and higher level courses. Practical work will consist of 40 hours for standard level and 60 hours for higher level. Within this, the time allocated for internal assessment will be a minimum of 10 hours for both standard level and higher level.

Internal assessment work is assessed using the following components: personal engagement, exploration, analysis, evaluation and communication.

• Group 4 project: In both standard level and higher level a group project will be undertaken in conjunction with the other Group 4 subjects. In both cases it requires a commitment of 10 hours.
• School assessments: Students will also undergo regular formal assessment; this will enable their progress to be monitored and evaluated as well as meeting the needs of the internal grading and assessment criteria.

General entry requirements:

International Baccalaureate Diploma: 6 x grade 6 and 2 x grade 5 at GCSE or equivalent.

International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme: 3 x grade 6 and 2 x grade 5 at GCSE or equivalent.