AS/A Level Physics


  • Start Date: 01/09/2026
  • Course is for: School Leaver
  • Course Length: 1 Year
  • Funding Support Funding Support:
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Physics is a fascinating subject which builds upon your mathematical skills and your ability to think ‘out of the box’ to solve problems.

Physicists look for hidden laws to explain why all matter and energy in the Universe exists, where it comes from and how it behaves the way it does.

If you like asking really big questions, if you want to discover how things around you work, if you’re wondering about the forces which govern the Universe, if you have an inquisitive and curious mind, then Physics is for you.

Year 1 – AS Level

You’ll explore the following:

  • Measurements and their errors
  • Particles and radiation
  • Waves
  • Mechanics and materials
  • Electricity

Year 2 – A Level

You’ll explore the following core elements:

  • Further mechanics & thermal physics
  • Fields and their consequences
  • Nuclear physics
  • Turning points in physics

Required Entry Qualifications

In order to study A-levels with us, all students need to obtain a strong GCSE grade profile, averaging 6 x Grade 6s.

Individual subjects will also have their own specific requirements. In Physics, you will be expected to have a either a 7 in GCSE Physics or a 7,7 in GCSE Combined Science along with a 7 in GCSE Maths. You’ll also need a Grade 5 in English Language. 

However, if you do not meet this profile, please still come to one of our enrolment events to discuss all of your options with a member of our A-level team.

Your knowledge and skills will be assessed in the following ways:

  • Frequent topic tests
  • Mock assessments
  • Practical assessments
  • Exams – you’ll sit exams at the end of year 1 and year 2

Physics can open the doors to a wide range of careers, for example:

  • Career in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Chemical, Industrial, Mechatronics…)
  • Astrophysics
  • Economics, for example with focus on Statistical Modelling for Investment Banking
  • Research – Theoretical Physics and applied Physics

A typical salary for a graduate engineering job with a high-profile employer in the UK is around the £26,000 to £29,000.

You’ll spend a year at each level; a year at AS Level and a year at A Level.

Physics is a subject very well regarded by universities and is important if you want to study engineering.

It is also useful for economics, dentistry, veterinary science and computing.

WHAT CAN I DO WITH A QUALIFICATION IN AS/A LEVEL PHYSICS?

  • Laboratory Technicians
  • Physical Scientists

Knowledge

Chemistry: Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

Mechanical: Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

Median Salary
£26,317

Average Qualifications
Level 4 NVQ; Intermediate, DipHE, DipFE

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Knowledge

Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Physics: Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub- atomic structures and processes.

Geography: Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.

Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

Engineering and Technology: Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Median Salary
£52,409

Average Qualifications
Honours, Bachelor's degree

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Skills

Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Science
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Mathematics
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Learning Strategies
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Skills

Science
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Mathematics
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Learning Strategies
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
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School Leaver Course Guide 2026/2027

View or download our course guide for 16-18 year olds.

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