Free A Level Physics in Bristol. Classes run at St Brendan's Sixth Form College. This full-time, daytime level 3 a level physics course takes two years to complete. You'll study matter, energy, space and time, from sub-atomic particles to the scale of the universe, including topics like the physics behind the Large Hadron Collider. The course strongly recommends taking A Level Mathematics alongside it. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language, GCSE Science at grades 6:6 or above (or a 6 in Physics from triple award), and GCSE Maths at grade 6 or above.
Who this course is for
This course aims to develop your interest and enthusiasm for Physics. The topics covered will inspire and nurture your passion for Physics laying the groundwork for further study in science or engineering. You will also develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills knowledge and understanding of how science works such as the particles and processes involved in the Large Hadron Collider. It is strongly recommended that A-level Mathematics should be taken with this course. Students who are not taking an A-level in maths will be required to enrol on a maths course. Year 1 1 Measurements and their errors. 2 Particles and radiation 3 Waves 4 Mechanics and materials 5 Electricity Year 2 6 Further mechanics and thermal processes 7 Fields and their consequences 8 Nuclear Physics 9 Astrophysics For the full A-level topics 1- 9 are assessed in three written exam papers each lasting 2.0 hours each. Students will complete a range of practical activities and the knowledge and understanding of these will be assessed within the written exams. Alongside the exam grade student certificates will also show if they have earned a practical skill endorsement. This is a pass/fail mark generated from a folio of practical work. University Master classes visiting speakers Crest Gold Awards Academic Challenges (Physics Olympiads) Nuffield Research Placements and various science trips including CERN. An A-level in Physics can be used as part of the entry requirement for many degree courses. The problem solving communication and mathematical skills required to achieve an A-level in Physics make it an excellent qualification for a range of careers. Typical careers include physics and astrophysics research finance mechanical engineer aeronautical engineering civil engineering sound engineering robotics engineering weather forecaster renewable energy (e.g. wind farm development and design) programming and medical physics including medicine etc. A charge may be mad
Entry requirements
Five GCSE passes at grade 4 or above including English Language. GCSE Core and Additional Science at grades 6:6 or above or a minimum of 6:6 from triple award to include at least a 6 in Physics plus GCSE Mathematics at grade 6 or above. In addition a student must have achieved an average GCSE point score of 5.7. GCSE Applied Science is not a suitable qualification for this course. Physics students who are not studying A-level Mathematics are strongly recommended
What you will learn
You'll study the interactions between matter, energy, space and time at both sub-atomic and cosmic scales.
You'll explore particle physics, including the processes involved in experiments like the Large Hadron Collider.
You'll apply mathematical skills to analyse and solve physics problems.
You'll develop scientific reasoning and practical investigation skills.
You'll build understanding of the fundamental laws and mechanisms that govern the physical world.
You'll practise evaluating evidence and constructing logical arguments from experimental data.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons, practical laboratory work, and problem-solving sessions. Assessment is by written examinations at the end of the two-year course. Practical skills are assessed separately through a practical endorsement, which is reported alongside your A Level grade. Regular in-class work and independent study support your exam preparation throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. St Brendan's Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Physics teacher - teach physics in secondary schools or colleges
Engineering technician - support design and testing in engineering roles
Laboratory technician - assist with scientific research and testing
Data analyst - apply quantitative skills across science and business sectors
Nuclear technician - work in nuclear energy or decommissioning
Aerospace technician - support aircraft or spacecraft design and maintenance
Acoustics consultant - measure and manage sound in built environments
What you could study next
BSc Physics - undergraduate degree for those pursuing physics research or academia
BEng or MEng Engineering - mechanical, electrical, civil, or aerospace routes at university
BSc Mathematics or Applied Mathematics - builds on the strong maths foundation this course develops
A Level Mathematics - strongly recommended alongside this qualification if not already taken; supports university applications in science and engineering
