Physics and Electronics

Head of Department Mr. S. Worth

The department aims to communicate a knowledge and understanding of the physical world in a manner suitable for all abilities, and to place it in a context that may be perceived as relevant by all pupils.

Organisation of the Department.

Physics and Electronics

Electronics is organised alongside Physics, and schemes of work and syllabuses are coordinated wherever possible to make the best use of staff and pupil time.

There are 3 laboratories situated on the top floor of the science block, all equipped for the teaching of physics to the entire age range. One laboratory has 6 computer terminals that are used primarily for Technology in Years 7 and 8.

The department has its own technician and a dark room adjoining one laboratory.

Subjects offered within the department:

Years 7 and 8: Electronics and Control

All pupils study these courses as part of the Technology programme. Electronics aims to give an introduction to the basic ideas of digital electronics, timing and memory whilst the control lessons give practical experience of designing flow diagrams on a spreadsheet which are subsequently used to operate mechanical systems via an interface.

Year 9: Key Stage 3 Physics

This lays the foundations for study of the subject at GCSE and leads to the Key Stage 3 exam in the summer. A data logging practical is a part of the course in which the pupils’ results of an experiment are down loaded to a computer and a word-processed report is written.

Years 10 and 11

Physics is taught as a part of the Modular Science course, with the AQA exam board and also as a separate GCSE, using the OCR board.

When there is demand GCSE Electronics has been offered as an extra course, taught after school, using the AQA exam board.

Years 12 and 13

Physics is taught to AS and A2; Electronics is offered to AS in Year 12. Both courses use the OCR exam board.

Physics modules:

• Forces and Motion (A/S)

• Electrons and Photons (A/S)

• Waves (A/S)

• Experimental Skills (A/S)

• Fields, Forces and Energy (A)

• One Option Module (A)

• Experimental Skills (A)

• Electronics modules

• Foundation Electronics (AS)

• Signal Processing (AS)

• Practical Project (AS)

There are normally about 20 students taking Physics in each year, split into two sets.

The subject is a popular choice and we are especially pleased that students from other countries have the confidence to follow Physics right up to advanced level.

From time to time pupils are entered for a national competition, the British Physics Olympiad, and successes include 1 gold (placed in top ten) and two silver medals (top 50).

Those who have studied physics to A-Level in the recent past have gone on to university to study architecture, accountancy, law, medicine, engineering and the physical sciences. Those taking Electronics often pursue courses in electronic engineering or computer science.

“Physics at Kent College is enjoyable and challenges me to look at the world from a different perspective.”
Michelle, Year 10

“Our Physics teachers are very pleasant. When there is anything we do not understand, they always use ingenious and interesting ways to help us grasp key ideas.”
Jackie, Year 13