Physics

“The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvellous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery each day.” – Albert Einstein

At CSGS we aim to develop our students into outstanding physicists with a thirst for understanding the Universe and a commitment to delve into its wonders. We encourage student’s intellectual curiosity through a physics course which has a strong emphasis on applying knowledge and skills to real life; looking to stretch our students understanding beyond the confines of the national curriculum and exam specifications. We aim to foster independent learners and encourage our students to develop a resilient approach to problem solving.

Physics students develop skills that are in high demand in diverse careers, from engineering to finance. These include skills relating to numeracy, data analysis, problem-solving and the communication of complex ideas, as well as a wider understanding of how the world works on a scientific and human level. Students are given opportunities to accumulate knowledge and skills that they can use in life beyond school.

Throughout the course we use an empirical scientific methodology to support students in establishing advanced mathematical and analytical skills. Students are encouraged to think critically and develop creative approaches to solve complex problems. This helps to prepare them to achieve their potential in public examinations and supports their further studies within and outside of Physics.

Combined Science:

Physics at KS5:

Key Stage 3

1. Space
2. Forces and Motion
3. Energy
4. Moments and Pressure
5. Electricity
6. Magnetism
7. Waves (Sound, light and thermal)

Key Stage 4

1. Energy
2. Particles in Motion
3. Electricity
4. Nuclear Physics
5. Forces and Motion
6. Waves
7. Electromagnetism
8. Space (Separate Physics only)

Key Stage 5

1. Particle Physics
2. Quantum Physics
3. Electricity
4. Waves
5. Mechanics and Materials
6. Circular and Simple harmonic motion
7. Thermal Physics
8. Fields (Gravitational, Electric, Capacitors and Magnetic)
9. Nuclear Physics
10. Option unit (from Astrophysics, Medical Physics, Engineering Physics, Turning points in Physics or Electronics)

Key Stage 3

STEM club

Stretch and Challenge trips to the Science Museum and Greenwich Observatory

Inter-house STEM Challenge

Key Stage 4

Engineering Club

Junior Physics Challenge

Inter-house STEM Challenge

Key Stage 5

CERN Trip

Oxbridge problem-solving club

Engineering Club (Can-sat project)

Architecture club

Brian Burgess School Physics

CERN Beamline project

BPhO Online Physics Challenge

BPhO Senior Physics Challenge

A-Level Physics live trip

Inter-house STEM Challenge