All students studying Physics at Christ College will experience the variety and the excitement of a developing and contemporary science. With two full time experienced Physics teachers we aim to stimulate curiosity, interest and enjoyment in a fascinating and challenging subject. Physics is both a theoretical and a practical subject and our teaching at all ages reflects this.
Physics is taught as part of the Science curriculum (6 periods per week) in Forms 1 and 2 in mixed ability classes. In Form 3 Physics is taught as a separate subject (2 periods per week) in setted groups.
At GCSE physics can be taken as one of three separate sciences (12 periods per week leading to 3 GCSEs) or as part of Core/Additional Science (9 periods per week leading to 2 GCSEs. The AQA ‘Science A' option is delivered.
In the sixth form we follow the WJEC syllabus which has a well chosen balance between fundamental ideas and up to date applications of recent physics. Typically we have two classes at AS and one or two at A2 level. During their at Christ College our students will gain knowledge and understanding from the traditional physics of mechanics and forces, electrical circuits and the Solar System through to challenging modern ideas such as particle and quantum physics.
The Department is housed in the brand new Science Building. We have recently been fortunate to receive additional funding from the Wolfson Foundation which will allow us to further upgrade our equipment and resources during 2009. Pupils have access to a wide range of facilities both within the department and across the school which support their learning. These include the new laboratories, a well stocked library and excellent ICT facilities.
Physics results in public examinations are impressive. In 2008 60% of A2 candidates achieved an A grade (90% A – C). At GCSE 93% achieved A* - C in Physics (90% A* - C in Science and 80% A* - C in Additional Science). Each year a significant number of 6th Formers go on from Christ College to pursue science and physics related courses at University including engineering, architecture and medicine.
Head of Department: Guy Hope (Head of Science and Physics)
Email:head of department@christcollegebrecon.com
