What is Physics? Basically, Physics tries to explain how the universe works as simply as possible, but no simpler. From Quarks to Quasars, Physics is all about understanding and predicting nature. Together we will look at how our world (and beyond) behaves and try to make sense of it.
You will enjoy Physics if you want to find out about life, the universe and everything; develop models to explain how the world we live in works; sharpen your problem-solving skills and see how physics is used all around us. You will discover that our ideas of how things work have changed over the centuries; scientists are not always 'right'. A theory only lasts until an experiment proves it wrong! Then we need a new one.
The course places great emphasis on the practical uses of the subject and is divided into 'themes'. You still study all the Physics you would expect, it is just packaged differently and, we think, in a more exciting and enjoyable way. By the end you will see why Physics is so important to our world!
- Moving & keeping still, structures & sports: forces, motion & energy
- Why things don’t break: material science
- Electricity: the most versatile form of energy
- Telescopes, LASERs & musical instruments: waves
- Atomic and quantum physics
- Particle physics
- Planets & satellites: circular motion & gravity
- Astrophysics: heat, gases & thermodynamics
- Astrophysics: radioactivity & nuclear physics
- Cosmology
- Electromagnetism: Electric & magnetic fields
- Earthquake-proof buildings: oscillations
- Environmental physics: sources of energy & their impact on the planet
Studied: Physics, Maths, Computer Science + AS Chemistry
Progression: Physics, University of Bristol (2.1)
Studied: Physics, Maths, Computer Science + AS Chemistry
Progression: Physics, University of Bristol (2.1)
Following his degree, Will stayed in Bristol as a postgraduate researcher and studied for his Masters where he completed a project which involved devising a new technique to measure the mechanical properties of cells in the blood for disease diagnosis, funded by cancer research UK. He is now working as a consultant and data analyst at a tech startup in the video gaming industry.
William says: "Studying at Varndean was such a rewarding experience for me, with excellent teachers who I'll always remember supporting me every step of the way."
Course Essentials
PLUS
Grade 6 in both GCSE Physics and another Science GCSE Or 2 x Grade 6 in GCSE Combined Science
PLUS
Grade 6 in GCSE Maths
Students may also need to attend additional Maths support class if not taking A Level maths, as required.Practical work is assessed throughout the course and it earns you a ‘Practical Endorsement’ alongside your A Level.