A Level Physics: Everything You Need to Know

AQA A level Physics covers particles and quantum phenomena, waves and optics, forces and Newton’s laws, momentum, work and energy, and the behaviour of materials and fluids. Students also study electricity and DC circuits, circular motion, simple harmonic motion, and thermal physics. Later in the course, they explore gravitational and electric fields, capacitors, magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction, radioactivity, and nuclear energy. The syllabus also includes an optional topic, including astrophysics, medical physics, engineering physics, turning points in physics, or electronics.

OCR A Level Physics offers a similarly comprehensive curriculum, starting with motion, forces in action, and the properties of materials. The course covers work and energy, waves and quantum behaviour, and electricity before progressing to circular motion, oscillations, and thermal physics. Students also study gravitational and electric fields, capacitance, magnetic fields, and nuclear and particle physics. The course concludes with astrophysics and cosmology, providing a broad yet detailed exploration of the subject.

Edexcel A Level Physics follows a structured approach, covering mechanics, electric circuits, and further mechanics before introducing electric and magnetic fields, nuclear and particle physics, and the properties of materials. Later topics include waves and the particle nature of light, thermodynamics, space, gravitational fields, and oscillations, ensuring students gain a well-rounded understanding of physics.

Eduqas A Level Physics includes motion, energy concepts, and circular motion, followed by vibrations, kinetic theory, electricity, and magnetic fields. The course also explores particle physics, nuclear decay, astrophysics, and medical physics. While the structure differs slightly from other exam boards, the fundamental content remains aligned with core A Level physics principles.

All exam boards require students to complete a set of practical investigations, which help them develop skills in measurement, data analysis, and experimental design. These practicals are essential for the course and for preparing students for scientific study beyond A Levels.

Mathematical skills are essential, as many topics involve algebra, trigonometry, and logarithmic functions to solve physics problems. Students must understand and interpret graphs, apply formulas correctly, and think logically about physical systems. In addition to numerical work, physics requires clear and structured scientific writing, particularly when explaining concepts, analysing data, or drawing conclusions from experiments.

Physics is a highly respected subject that opens doors to a wide range of university courses and career paths. The problem-solving, analytical, and mathematical skills gained through studying physics are valued in many fields. Students who complete A Level Physics often go on to study subjects such as Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, and Computer Science at university. Some also enter fields such as Medicine, Architecture, or Finance, where logical reasoning and numerical skills are in high demand.

Common career paths for physics students include engineering, mechanical design, electrical and civil engineering, aerospace and automotive industries, renewable energy, and power generation. Many students also go on to work in medical physics, forensic science, data science, and scientific research. Others use their problem-solving skills in sectors such as finance, software development, and artificial intelligence.

Each exam board has a slightly different assessment format:

AQA

• Paper 1: Topics 1-5 and 6.1 (Periodic Motion)
• Paper 2: Topics 6.2 (Thermal Physics), 7, and 8
• Paper 3: Practical skills, data analysis, and an optional topic
• Practical Endorsement: 12 required experiments assessed against CPAC criteria.

OCR

• Paper 1: Modelling Physics (mechanics, materials, and practical skills)
• Paper 2: Exploring Physics (waves, electricity, and quantum physics)
• Paper 3: Unified Physics (synoptic questions covering all topics)
• Practical Endorsement: At least 12 assessed experiments meeting CPAC criteria.

Edexcel (Pearson)

• Paper 1: Advanced Physics I (mechanics, electric circuits, and further mechanics)
• Paper 2: Advanced Physics II (fields, nuclear physics, and thermodynamics)
• Paper 3: General and Practical Principles (synoptic and practical-based questions)
• Practical Endorsement: At least 16 required experiments assessed against CPAC criteria.

Eduqas

• Paper 1: Newtonian Physics (mechanics, materials, and circular motion)
• Paper 2: Electricity and the Universe (electricity, waves, and astrophysics)
• Paper 3: Light, Nuclei, and Particles (optics, nuclear physics, and particle physics)
• Practical Endorsement: At least 12 required experiments assessed against CPAC criteria.

Studying Level Physics at a private sixth-form college offers several advantages. Smaller class sizes allow for more personalised teaching, ensuring students receive individual support when tackling complex topics. Many private colleges employ experienced subject specialists who provide focused guidance, particularly for university preparation.

Flexible course structures, including one-year intensive courses, allow students to tailor their studies to their goals. High-quality laboratory facilities ensure that students gain hands-on experience with practical experiments. Additionally, private colleges often offer targeted support for university admissions, including preparation for competitive applications to Oxbridge and Russell Group universities.

A private sixth-form college provides an excellent learning environment for students seeking to maximise their A Level Physics potential, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for academic and professional success.