Free A Level Physics in Sheffield

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAQA awarding body

About this course

Free A Level Physics course in Sheffield. Classes run at Penistone Grammar School, with full-time daytime study over two years. You'll build in-depth knowledge of physics principles, develop hands-on practical skills, and learn how to analyse data. The AQA specification includes optional topics such as astrophysics, medical physics, and engineering physics, so you can focus on the areas that interest you most. Entry requires at least a Grade 6 in Physics GCSE (or 6-6 in Combined Science Trilogy) and a Grade 6 in Maths GCSE. You must also study Maths at A Level alongside this course.

Who this course is for

Physics is taught in our well equipped laboratories by experienced teachers who pride themselves on the amount of support and guidance that they provide to students. This course will help you to:  Progress smoothly from GCSE  Develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles of physics  Gain hands-on practical and data analysis skills  Appreciate ‘How Science Works’ and its relevance beyond the laboratory  See how physics links to other sciences and how the subject underpins important technologies

Entry requirements

Students must achieve a minimum of a Grade 6 in Physics GCSE or a 6-6 in the Combined Trilogy Course, as well as a grade 6 in Maths at GCSE. Students will be required to study Maths at A-level.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop in-depth knowledge of core physics principles, including mechanics, electricity, and waves.
  • You'll build hands-on practical skills through laboratory experiments in well-equipped science facilities.
  • You'll learn how to analyse and interpret data from scientific investigations.
  • You'll explore how physics connects to other sciences and to real-world applications.
  • You'll study at least one optional topic in depth, chosen from areas such as astrophysics, medical physics, or engineering physics.
  • You'll understand how scientific knowledge is developed, tested, and applied beyond the laboratory.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom teaching, laboratory practical work, and data analysis tasks. Assessment is by written examinations at the end of the two-year course, covering core content and your chosen optional topic. Practical skills are assessed separately through a Practical Endorsement, which is reported on your certificate alongside your exam grade.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Penistone Grammar School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Physics teacher: teach physics in secondary schools after a PGCE
  • Engineering technician: support engineers in design and testing roles
  • Laboratory technician: assist with scientific research and testing
  • Data analyst: apply mathematical and analytical skills across sectors
  • Nuclear or energy sector technician: entry-level technical roles in energy
  • Medical physics technician: support clinical teams using physics-based equipment

What you could study next

An a level physics qualification is a standard entry requirement for physics, engineering, and many science degrees at UK universities. You could progress to a BSc or MEng in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Astrophysics. Combined with A Level Maths, it also opens routes into Computer Science, Mathematics, and Natural Sciences degrees. Some learners go on to apprenticeships at degree level in engineering or technology.