Physics at Tormead
Physics and Maths Go Hand in Hand
Physics is the fundamental science which studies how objects in the physical world behave and interact – encompassing everything from sub-atomic particles to the largest structures in the universe. The subject’s amazing analytical and predictive power underpins almost all the technologies which enable our modern way of life. As well as being a rigorous and intellectually satisfying subject in its own right, Physics is a gateway to a wide range of technology–based university courses and careers.
Students who enjoy the theoretical aspects of physics may wish to study it, or a related field, such as astrophysics or materials science at university. Many Tormead girls who have taken A Level Physics have gone on to study engineering and related subjects at university, which can lead to a wide range of professional careers in industry, management, business and project delivery. Others have gone on to study unrelated fields such music, archaeology, animation or medicine. People who have studied Physics at higher level are valued by universities and employers because they have demonstrated academic rigour and developed robust analytical, problem-solving and mathematical modelling skills.
- Lower School
Lower School
Physics is taught as a separate subject by specialist teachers from the start of Year 7. Our intention is to give all girls, whatever their previous experience of science, a solid foundation in measurement, experimental techniques and the correct use of units, as well as the confidence to apply methods they have learnt in mathematics to problems in physics. In Years 7 to 9, girls study introductory topics within
- Forces & Motion
- Electricity
- Waves
- Energy
- Solids, liquids & gases
- Magnetism
- IGCSE
The Edexcel IGCSE Physics syllabus helps girls to understand the technological world in which they live and to take an informed interest in scientific developments, as well as being an excellent preparation for studying science subjects at higher levels. During the IGCSE, girls learn about the basic principles of physics through a mix of theoretical and practical studies. They gain an understanding of how physics is practised, as well as developing problem-solving skills by applying mathematical techniques such as the use of graphs and simple algebra.
Topics studied are:
Forces and motion: motion, forces and momentum
Electricity: static electricity, electric circuits and mains electricity
Waves: wave theory, sound, light and the electromagnetic spectrum
Energy resources and energy transfers: work, energy, power and electricity generation
Solids, liquids and gases: changes of state, pressure and gas laws
Magnetism and electromagnetism: magnets, electromagnetism, motors, generators and transformers
Nuclear Physics: radioactivity, fission, fusion and nuclear power
Astrophysics: orbits, stellar evolution, cosmology
The course is examined by two papers consisting of multiple choice, short answer and structured questions, which are taken at the end of Year 11. Questions about practical work are included in these papers.
- Enrichment
The Physics Department leads a number of visits each year including: Year 11 Astrophysics, Engineering and college tour at Cambridge University; Year 12 “Inspirational Physics” afternoon of lectures at the University of Surrey Physics Department; Year 13 Particle Physics Masterclass at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Oxfordshire; and Year 12 & 13 Visit to JET Nuclear Fusion Research facility at Culham.
Older girls are encouraged to attend public evening physics lectures at Surrey University & Royal Holloway (University of London)
All girls are encouraged to learn how to use the Tormead Observatory and to join observing sessions after school in the winter months. Sixth Form students may be offered GCSE Astronomy as an enrichment subject alongside their A levels.
The Physics Department encourages girls to compete in the British Physics Olympiad competitions in Years 10,11,12 & 13. We also welcome Tormead Old Girls back to talk to current pupils about their university course and subsequent careers in physics, science engineering and related fields. In addition, girls are encouraged to consider applying for Smallpeice Trust & Headstart STEM subject short taster courses at universities. Finally, girls considering engineering as a career and/or as a university course are encouraged to apply for a national Arkwright Sixth Form Engineering Scholarship scheme in Year 11.
11-16 Years
Our pupils enjoy exceptional educational opportunities within a caring and happy environment.
