All pupils are taught Physics in Years 7 to 8. Pupils are assessed on their Key Stage 3 knowledge in SATS tests held during May in Year 8. From Year 9, pupils may opt to take Physics as one of their science options at GCSE level.

Physics in Years 7 to 8
Pupils will learn through a broad range of fascinating themes including energy resources, forces and their effects, the solar system and beyond, heating and cooling, and electrical circuits. While learning about the part physics plays in the world around them, pupils will also explore magnets and electromagnets, light, sound and hearing, energy and electricity, gravity and space, speed, pressure and moments. Physics is a far-reaching, content rich subject that provides a tremendous introduction to this area of science and opens pupils’ minds to how and why things work as they do.

GCSE Physics from Year 9
Pupils opting to take physics at GCSE level will build upon their early understanding by looking in detail at electricity and magnetism, forces and motion, waves, the Earth and beyond, energy resources and transfer, and radioactivity. There are also two extension modules dealing with communications and particles. From Year 9, pupils will produce a range of coursework and prepare for their final examination.

GCSE assessment
We test pupils at the end of each module and record marks to help us help pupils to identify their strengths and weaknesses as we move closer to the final examination. Work will be assessed via coursework, modular examinations and a final examination. Coursework is carried out at regular intervals during years 10 and 11. Modular GCSE examinations will be held in November, March and May, with the final GCSE examination at the end year 10 or year 11.

Enrichment activities
Students will have the opportunity for out of school visits to places of physical interest, lectures and short courses in order to enhance and enrich what is learnt in class.

Beyond GCSE
The school offers AS and A2 level Physics to sixth form students. Physics can also be selected as a subject by those opting to take the International Baccalaureate Diploma.

Beyond school
Qualifications in Physics will be useful for those students wishing to gain a university placement in pursuit of a professional degree course such as engineering, science, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, actuary, sport and teaching.