Physics

Overview

Mr N. Clegg - Head of Physics

Physics is the study of energy and matter and how they interact with each other. This encompasses topics such as motion, electricity, magnetism, gravitation, waves, cosmology, particles, materials and many others. The range of scales involved are vast, from the constituents of sub-atomic particles to entire galaxies.

The subject is constantly evolving, as exciting discoveries force physicists to ask new questions about how and why our universe behaves on the way it does. This has forced Physics into the media over the past few years, making the subject more popular than ever.

At Key Stage 3 students are taught 4 Physics modules as part of their General Science course. In Years 9-11 GCSE students are taught by subject specialists.

The 3-year GCSE course provides many opportunities for enrichment, that go beyond the requirements of the curriculum. Students are challenged by topics that they would not normally encounter until Sixth Form. We study AQA GCSE Physics (8463).

At A level, Physics is a popular choice, as it is a natural companion to Mathematics. The Physics department has 6 specialist Physics teachers, which means that there are lots of options for students should they require help or advice. We strive to be a learning
community where every student is given the opportunity to fulfil their potential. We study OCR Physics A (H556 & H156).

Students in Years 10-13 are entered annually in national competitions such as the Physics Olympiad, often excelling and leading to exciting opportunities for the students.

Many of our students go on to study Physics or related courses at university, and the department runs special classes to help students prepare for interviews and entrance tests. These include the PAT for Oxford, ENGAA & NSAA for Cambridge, the Imperial
Physics test, and students who want to sit the Olympiad in Year 13.

In addition to the academic side, there are many extra-curricular opportunities available to students such as clubs, societies, and trips, including an annual trip to CERN for Year 13 Students. These activities are important in adding to the experiences of the students as they progress through their time at St Olave’s.

Physics Curriculum Summaries

Assessment

Physics Assessment and Feedback Process

Wider reading suggestions for Physics StudentsKS4 & KS5 Physics Reading Suggestions