Physics A-level


Start:
September
Duration:
2 years
Level:
3

Course Details

A-level Physics is your gateway to understanding the laws that shape our universe, from the smallest particles to the vastness of space. It sharpens problem-solving, analytical, and practical skills, preparing you for careers in engineering, technology, or science. Discover how physics powers innovation and unlocks endless possibilities for the future!

A-level Physics explores the fundamental principles that explain how the universe works. Students study topics such as mechanics, electricity, waves, materials, fields, nuclear and particle physics, as well as astrophysics in the final year. Alongside theoretical understanding, the course places strong emphasis on practical skills through required experiments, developing problem-solving, data analysis, and critical thinking abilities. Physics links closely with mathematics and supports careers in engineering, technology, computing, finance, and research. It is an intellectually challenging subject that nurtures curiosity, logical reasoning, and an appreciation of the physical world.

Sessions in A-level Physics are a blend of teacher-led tutorial sessions, where you will be learning the subject content, student-led workshop sessions,  where you'll be working either individually or in pairs to answer exam-style questions, or experiments, where you will be doing 12 required practicals over the two years.
In the second year, students will visit the Physics Department at the University of Liverpool. Then, right at the end of the course as we're learning astrophysics, we’ll take a trip to Jodrell Bank Observatory to learn more about radioastronomy and discover how physics played a vital role during the Second World War.
You'll need a scientific calculator and some basic stationary, including pencils, a ruler, rubber and different coloured pens.

A-level Physics is a great subject to pick for many careers in STEM, including engineering, radiography, architecture or of course continuing to follow the subject at degree level or beyond.

You will need a minimum or five GCSEs, including English at grade 5 and Maths at grade 4 together with three other subjects at grade 4 or above.

Additional entry requirements:

  • A minimum of a grade 6-6 in GCSE Combined Science, or a grade 6 in GCSE Physics. You will also need a minimum of grade 6 in GCSE Maths

The College will always treat each applicant as an individual. Should you not have or not expect to obtain the grades stated above, or not have relevant industry-related experience, the College would still welcome your application for this course as this will enable us to identify whether this course is, in fact, the right course for you or whether another course may be more appropriate.

University Guarantee

Every Sefton Sixth Form College student who successfully achieves a Level 3 qualification and meets attendance and entry requirements, is guaranteed a place on a course at the Hugh Baird University Centre.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some frequently asked questions that we are often asked:

Most students study 3 subjects, plus an Enhancement activity. Alongside these, students are assigned a Personal Development group and attend weekly sessions.

Yes.

Yes, students can access our Bursary Package that can help with associated costs, for example; travel, food and equipment. Find out more here.

Yes. During the interview process you will be introduced to a member of our Learner Support Team if necessary. We will take initial details of access arragements. This can be discussed again at enrolment, with follow up appointments with the team during the first few weeks of term.

Yes. You will have timetabled sessions each day of the week. There will be times when you are not in a lesson; this is your personal study time. During these sessions you will be completing activities which mean you are prepared for your subject lessons. This includes completing homework, revision, Brainscape decks, coursework tasks etc.