A LEVEL
Physics
Physics is the science of understanding, discovery and wonder at how the universe behaves.
Explore how the universe works, question the principles behind it, and discover the connections that link theory to reality.
You arrive as you are, and you’re celebrated for it. You leave ready to take on the world.
— Sixth Form student
Why Choose Physics at St Paul’s?
Our Physics department combines expert teaching with a supportive atmosphere where every student can thrive.
- Smaller class sizes mean more tailored attention and personalised support.
- Passionate, specialist teachers bring Physics to life through experiments, demonstrations and real-world problem-solving that spark curiosity.
- A community that knows and values every student, ensuring no one is left behind as you explore the laws that govern our universe.
- A subject that opens doors to future study and careers in engineering, computing, research, and beyond.
- A place where you can grow in confidence, think independently, and take pride in your discoveries.
Where Physics Can Take You
Our Physics students go on to study engineering, astrophysics, computer science and mathematics at top universities, or pursue apprenticeships where their analytical and technical skills make them stand out.
I thought about leaving, but I realised no one else would care about me the way St Paul’s does. Here, I’m not starting over, I’m moving forward.
— Student Name
What You’ll Study
Physics explores how the universe works from the smallest particles to the vastness of space. Through theory, experiment, and discovery, you’ll develop the curiosity, precision, and analytical skills that define great scientists and engineers.
You’ll build your understanding across core concepts such as:
- Measurements and their errors
- Particles and radiation
- Waves
- Mechanics and materials
- Electricity
- Further mechanics and thermal physics
- Fields and their consequences
- Nuclear physics
Then, depending on your interests, you can specialise through optional topics such as astrophysics, medical physics, engineering physics, turning points in physics, or electronics.
Full details of the course can be found in the exam board’s official AQA specification.
On your Physics journey, you’ll learn to think logically, work creatively, and apply mathematics to real-world problems. You’ll develop skills that will prepare you for degrees and careers in science, engineering, technology, and beyond.
You arrive as you are, and you’re celebrated for it. You leave ready to take on the world.
— Sixth Form student
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Physics Exam Results
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PASS RATE
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achieved
A* to C
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achieved
A* to B
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achieved
A* to A
Entry Requirements
In addition to our standard entry requirements, a number of our courses have specific entry requirements to ensure you are ready to thrive in the subject. For Physics, you’ll need:
- Grade 6+ in two sciences including Physics
- Grade 6+ in Mathematics
These requirements are in place to help set you up for success and make sure you have the right foundation to enjoy the challenge of Sixth Form study.
I thought about leaving, but I realised no one else would care about me the way St Paul’s does. Here, I’m not starting over, I’m moving forward.
— Student Name
Hear From Our Students
Maths at St Paul’s really boosted my confidence. The teachers never let you struggle alone, they always explained things in different ways until it clicked. Because of that support, I achieved more than I thought I could and now I’m planning to study Engineering at university. It’s opened so many doors for me.
In lower school the larger class size made me rarely feel like I was fully challenged to improve my mathematical abilities. However, the small classes at A-Level in St Paul’s has boosted my confidence a lot, as the teachers get to know you well and are always there to support you. Maths is also a great asset to have for university applications.
Maths is an awesome subject. I enjoy the challenging aspect of problem solving and greatly appreciate the support that the Maths department at St Paul’s is always happy and ready to give.
Physics at St Paul’s taught me to look at problems from new angles and to persevere when things got challenging. The support from my teachers gave me the confidence to push beyond what I thought I could achieve.
Dr M Tickner
SUBJECT LEADER FOR SCIENCES
Thank you so much for your interest in Physics at A Level. We have a fabulous team of energetic and enthusiastic specialists at St Paul’s ready to support you on your journey. Â
Should you have any questions at all about studying Physics at A Level, or the possible career paths beyond College, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Send me a message
We’d love to hear from you, whether you want to talk about subject choices, entry requirements, or your future career ideas.
Are you ready to question, explore, and understand the forces that shape our universe?
Start your Physics journey at St Paul’s.
Whatever course you choose, you’ll be joining a community where every student is known and loved. Our mission is not just to help you succeed academically, but to help you grow as a person, supported and celebrated every step of the way.
PhysicsCourse Content
Study a broad range of subject matter to give you the grounding you need to become a competent physicist. Delve into the laws that explain why everything in the universe exists and examine the incredible forces of nature.Â
Core Content
- Measurements and their errors
- Particles and radiation
- Waves
- Mechanics and materials
- Electricity
- Further mechanics and thermal physics
- Fields and their consequences
- Nuclear physics
Â
Options
- Astrophysics
- Medical physics
- Engineering physics
- Turning points in physics
- Electronics
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CONTENT |
Sections 1 to 5 and Period Motion |
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WEIGHT |
34% (85 Marks) |
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LENGTH |
2 Hours |
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Paper 1 comprises of a mixture of short and long answer questions worth 60 marks, and 25 multiple choice questions on content.Â
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CONTENT |
Thermal Physics and Sections 7 to 8 |
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WEIGHT |
34% (85 Marks) |
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LENGTH |
2 Hours |
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Paper 2 comprises of a mixture of short and long answer questions worth 60 marks, and 25 multiple choice questions on content.Â
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CONTENT |
Practical Skills & Data Analysis and a choice of Section between 9-11 |
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WEIGHT |
32% (80 Marks) |
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LENGTH |
2 Hours |
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Paper 3 comprises of short and long answer questions on practical experiments and data analysis (45 marks), and short and long answer questions on the choice section (35 marks).
