Physics

As with Biology and Chemistry, Physics is studied as part of Science in the Lower, Middle and Upper Fifth forms, and pupils will sit GCSEs in Science, and potentially in Additional Science or all three Science subjects separately, depending on their aptitude. Physics can then be selected as a separate subject at AS and A2 Level in the Sixth Form.

The principles of Physics underpin many of the aspects of our modern technological society: electronic devices such as computers and DVD players are everyday examples, but other applications include nuclear fission, the design of a suspension bridge, and space travel. An understanding of physics is a valuable tool, and a qualification will be essential for entry into a range of scientific and technical professions.

Topics covered in the Lower Fifth and in the GCSE years include wave properties, forces and their effects on energy and power, and the mechanisms involved in the transfer of thermal energy.

In the Sixth Form, at AS and A2 Level, subject areas include Newtonian physics, kinetic theory, quantum mechanics, field theory, nuclear energy. We recommend that those pupils who wish to proceed to A2 level in Physics should also study Chemistry or Mathematics.

Our aim is to make Physics as accessible as possible to pupils with a wide range of abilities, and we are encouraged by the numbers of pupils who choose to take the subject at GCSE and beyond. Whilst most of the teaching is of course classroom and laboratory based, we also organise field trips for our pupils, including, for example, a visit to the wind farm, located off the Kent coast at Whitstable.