Physics Standard and Higher Level Group 4

Applications Open: 5th December 2025

On Time Applications Close: 31st January 2026

Later Applications: Applications continue to be accepted after 31 January 2026

Entry Requirements: https://www.tgs.kent.sch.uk/sixth-form

How to Apply: Please apply via Tonbridge Grammar School’s website https://www.tgs.kent.sch.uk/apply-to-our-sixth-form

Tonbridge Grammar School does not accept applications via KentChoices.

PLEASE NOTE

Applications are open for our Sixth Form. We don't accept applications through Kent Choices - please visit our website to apply by following this link: https://tgs-sixth-form-2020.paperform.co/

Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences, as it seeks to explain the universe itself from the very smallest particles—currently accepted as quarks, which may be truly fundamental—to the vast distances between galaxies

All students cover: measurement and uncertainties, mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity and magnetism, circular motion, atomic, nuclear & particle physics, energy production and astrophysics.

Higher Level students also study: wave phenomena, fields, electromagnetic induction and quantum & nuclear physics.

A significant proportion of lesson time is used to carry out practical work through which students develop their manual dexterity and analytical skills. We offer students one to one support at lunchtime Science Clinics. Students are also offered the opportunity to attend lectures and several trips are organised throughout the two years to extend and enrich the experience.

There are three written papers which use a variety of question styles, and a coursework component in the form of an individual research project of 10 hours.

All candidates should have GCSE Grade 6 or above (or its equivalent) in English, Mathematics, at least one Science and one language where studied. Where equivalence cannot be established the School will set appropriate I/GCSE papers to confirm that the applicant is capable of satisfying the academic profile required for the subjects to be studied and the IB Diploma Programme as a whole.

Many of the students who study Physics choose related courses, in particular Engineering, at university level. The destinations are varied but are heavily weighted in favour of Russell Group universities. In recent years, some students have also chosen to study Engineering courses abroad, most notably Stanford University, USA.