Course Overview
Physicists explore the answers to complex questions such as: How did the Universe begin? How does the sun keep shining? What are the basic building blocks of matter? What is mass? What makes things move?
If you think these questions are fascinating, then you'll enjoy studying physics. This A-level will provide a great stepping-stone to any science or engineering subject at university. A-level Physics has a high mathematical content, therefore it is recommended to be taken alongside A-level Mathematics.
If you want to investigate the limits of space, the beginning of time and everything in between, understand how the technology around you works or maybe save the planet and help people get better when they are ill then this course is for you. You will need to be a logical thinker and be confident using Mathematics.
At Hartpury, we follow the AQA Physics specification.
On this course you'll study the following topics over two years.
- Measurements and their errors
- Particles and radiation
- Waves
- Mechanics and materials
- Electricity
- Further mechanics and thermal physics (A-level only)
- Fields and their consequences (A-level only)
- Nuclear physics (A-level only)
- Astrophysics (A-level only)
The majority of A-level lessons are delivered from the classrooms in our College Learning Centre, and our modern science laboratories, providing a modern learning environment, contemporary classrooms with smart boards, well-equipped library and learning resources.
Lessons are delivered in a traditional manner and include individual tasks as well as group work. A-level students will be set regular homework tasks as well as regular assessments throughout the academic year.
A-levels offers a unique timetable facilitating sporting development and extra-curricular activities, and a full enrichment programme to enhance employability skills and the holistic development of all students.
A-level students have access to our equine and sport facilities, animal collection, and our commercial Home Farm.
Students have a pastoral tutor who will support them to succeed in their studies and their enrichment activities. All students have access to our academic and wellbeing support teams who run regular workshops and one-to-one sessions on campus and online. In addition, all students have access to medical professionals on campus.
Exam board:AQA
Total of six hours assessment split over three examination papers. Each paper will have a duration of two hours.
To help prepare you for your exams throughout the course, you’ll complete regular end-of-topic assessments, homework tasks and mock exams. These will help track your progress and highlight areas to improve.
An A-level in Physics can be combined with subjects like Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Physical Education, Economics, Business Studies, Geography or Environmental Science and can lead to a wide range of exciting progression routes. Students may go on to careers in engineering, medicine, renewable energy, finance or scientific research.
Popular combinations include Physics with Maths for careers in mechanical, civil or software engineering, cyber security, computer science, or teaching. Physics with Chemistry or Biology supports pathways into medicine, veterinary science, biomedical engineering or prosthetics. Pairing Physics with Business or Economics opens opportunities in finance, accountancy or technical business leadership. Combining Physics with Geography or Environmental Science can lead to roles in geophysics, geology, or renewable energy innovation. Studying Physics with PE supports careers in physiotherapy, prosthetics, or sports science.
These combinations support national skills priorities in education and research, clean energy, digital and data skills, construction, defence and life sciences. Locally, they align with Gloucestershire’s skills needs in engineering, construction, cyber-tech, and green renewables.
Course Overview
Course information
Physicists explore the answers to complex questions such as: How did the Universe begin? How does the sun keep shining? What are the basic building blocks of matter? What is mass? What makes things move?
If you think these questions are fascinating, then you'll enjoy studying physics. This A-level will provide a great stepping-stone to any science or engineering subject at university. A-level Physics has a high mathematical content, therefore it is recommended to be taken alongside A-level Mathematics.
If you want to investigate the limits of space, the beginning of time and everything in between, understand how the technology around you works or maybe save the planet and help people get better when they are ill then this course is for you. You will need to be a logical thinker and be confident using Mathematics.
At Hartpury, we follow the AQA Physics specification.
What you’ll learn
On this course you'll study the following topics over two years.
- Measurements and their errors
- Particles and radiation
- Waves
- Mechanics and materials
- Electricity
- Further mechanics and thermal physics (A-level only)
- Fields and their consequences (A-level only)
- Nuclear physics (A-level only)
- Astrophysics (A-level only)
How you’ll learn
The majority of A-level lessons are delivered from the classrooms in our College Learning Centre, and our modern science laboratories, providing a modern learning environment, contemporary classrooms with smart boards, well-equipped library and learning resources.
Lessons are delivered in a traditional manner and include individual tasks as well as group work. A-level students will be set regular homework tasks as well as regular assessments throughout the academic year.
A-levels offers a unique timetable facilitating sporting development and extra-curricular activities, and a full enrichment programme to enhance employability skills and the holistic development of all students.
A-level students have access to our equine and sport facilities, animal collection, and our commercial Home Farm.
Students have a pastoral tutor who will support them to succeed in their studies and their enrichment activities. All students have access to our academic and wellbeing support teams who run regular workshops and one-to-one sessions on campus and online. In addition, all students have access to medical professionals on campus.
How you’ll be assessed
Exam board:AQA
Total of six hours assessment split over three examination papers. Each paper will have a duration of two hours.
To help prepare you for your exams throughout the course, you’ll complete regular end-of-topic assessments, homework tasks and mock exams. These will help track your progress and highlight areas to improve.
What can you do after this course?
An A-level in Physics can be combined with subjects like Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Physical Education, Economics, Business Studies, Geography or Environmental Science and can lead to a wide range of exciting progression routes. Students may go on to careers in engineering, medicine, renewable energy, finance or scientific research.
Popular combinations include Physics with Maths for careers in mechanical, civil or software engineering, cyber security, computer science, or teaching. Physics with Chemistry or Biology supports pathways into medicine, veterinary science, biomedical engineering or prosthetics. Pairing Physics with Business or Economics opens opportunities in finance, accountancy or technical business leadership. Combining Physics with Geography or Environmental Science can lead to roles in geophysics, geology, or renewable energy innovation. Studying Physics with PE supports careers in physiotherapy, prosthetics, or sports science.
These combinations support national skills priorities in education and research, clean energy, digital and data skills, construction, defence and life sciences. Locally, they align with Gloucestershire’s skills needs in engineering, construction, cyber-tech, and green renewables.
A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above.
Mathematics and Physics or Combined Science at grade 6 or above. For Combined Science, you'll need a double grade, 66.
You should expect some small costs for books and stationery. There will also be opportunities to take part in trips related to the topics you are studying. In the past, these have included visits to Alton Towers, the Houses of Parliament, JCB, Uttoxeter, and the Cadbury Factory. These trips incur a charge/are covered by the educational visits fee.
Students are required to pay a non-refundable educational visits fee at enrolment.
Which other A-levels does this work well with?
A-level Physics typically goes well with: Biology, Economics, Geography, Mathematics, Physical Education and Psychology.
Can I study A-level Business and play in the Sports Academy?
This will depend which other A-levels you are studying. Where possible we try to work academy timetables around academic timetables, however this is not always possible. Please email to discuss your individual circumstances.
Can I bring my horse and study A-levels?
Yes - we provide students with the opportunity to bring their horse (or horses) with them while they study. On-site livery is offered to students on a DIY or full livery basis. This is subject to availability as demand is always high. Fees apply.
How much does the course cost?
If you're a UK student under the age of 19 enrolling in full-time A-level courses at Hartpury College, you typically won't need to pay tuition fees. For further information, details for those over 19 year-of-age and international students, visit: Finance | Hartpury College
Outstanding
Rated 'Ofsted Outstanding in all areas' for academic and curriculum-related provision
99.4% pass-rate
With an A-level pass rate of 99.4% (Hartpury College 2025), our outcomes for students are exceptional.
Living in on-site college accommodation at Hartpury, you’ll be part of a vibrant and international community of students of all ages who share their experience of life at college and university together on one campus.
The Hartpury Certificate is an enrichment programme designed to support our students to grow.
A-levels or a diploma?
Are you unsure about whether A-levels or a BTEC Diploma are the right choice for you? Find out the key differences and which qualification would best suit your learning style and your career and further study ambitions on our dedicated page.
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