Physics - A LevelHead of Department: Nick Everett

Email: nick.everett@qmc.ac.uk

Fact File• Two year linear A Level Course (AQA Physics)• 100% Examined (plus a practical endorsement)• Physics is essential for many Engineering courses and good for scientific degrees too• Lots of enrichment opportunities, competitions, talks and trips• Taught in state of the art laboratories• A facilitating subject that is respected by both universities and employers

Course SummaryPhysics is the study of EVERYTHING! From the origin of the Universe itself to the tiny structure of the fundamental particles it consists of; the entire history of time and space! It is often known as the fundamental science, the branch that studies the natural phenomena of the Universe and tries to determine the laws that govern our lives. Whilst theoretical Physicists ask the really big questions such as; “How did the Universe begin?” and “How does the sun keep shining?” other physicists apply their understanding to solve problems. They develop new forms of energy production and design new medical scanners and radiotherapy treatments for cancer. No matter what interests you have, there is an area of Physics for you.

Specific entry requirementsTo ensure you have the best possible chance of success in Physics, you are required to have obtained at least grade 6 in both GCSE Core and Additional Science, a grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics and 5 or better in GCSE English. If you have studied the three sciences separately at GCSE you should have obtained at least a grade 6 in Physics and one of the other sciences. You will also be required to study A Level Maths alongside A Level Physics.

Progression skills and opportunitiesPhysicists solve ‘real world’ problems using mathematical reasoning, sound arguments and reliable evidence, skills you will develop on this course. During your studies you will learn how to perform investigations in our state of the art laboratories; you will learn how to collect and interpret data, and how to use this evidence to explain interesting phenomena. You will be required to clearly communicate the reasoning behind your conclusions using logical steps that others can follow.

Physicists develop strong logical, numerical, problem solving skills that will make you an attractive prospect for many different employers from a variety of different industries. Physicists are in demand in engineering fields of all types; but also in areas as diverse as medicine, archaeology, police work, environmental science, aerospace and accountancy for example: the list is almost endless.

How is the course assessed?The new linear A Level Physics course will be assessed by your performance in three exams at the end of the second year. These exams are synoptic and between them, will cover all the elements from the entire two years of study. Each exam is 2 hours long and will contribute 33% to your final A Level grade. There is no longer any coursework that contributes to your final A Level grade: this final grade will purely depend upon your examination performance. Practical work will still form an integral part of the course, but a separate ‘practical endorsement’ will provide evidence of your successful development of laboratory skills. PASS or FAIL will be added to the final certificate, next to your grade.

What topics will I be studying?1. Measurements & Errors The fundamental units of measurements, plus the study of errors and their significance.2. Particles & Radiation The fundamental properties of matter, electromagnetic radiation and quantum phenomena.3. Waves The properties and applications of waves, including refraction, diffraction and interference4. Mechanics & Materials The influence of forces, energy and momentum plus a study of material properties.5. Electricity The fundamentals of electricity through the practical investigation of electrical circuits.6. Further Mechanics & Thermal Physics Circular & simple harmonic motion and the properties and nature of ideal gasses7. Fields & their consequences A great unifying idea of Physics, how gravitation, electrostatics and magnetic field theory link.8. Nuclear Physics The nucleus and nuclear power from an understanding of the link between mass and energy.Plus one optional topic chosen from the list below:9. Astrophysics The study and interpretation of the universe and the principles behind the devices used.10. Engineering Physics The applications of rotational dynamics and thermodynamics.

Will I need any specialist materials or equipment?You will need a number of course booklets, revision guides and practical equipment but everything you require will be provided as you contribute towards these as part of your course costs. Your teacher may recommend other books for study and revision but it is up to you whether you buy these or access them in the College Library.

Art, Craft and Design - A LevelHead of Department: James Fraser-Murison

Email: james.fraser-murison@qmc.ac.uk

Fact File• For students planning a career in Art and Design, the A Level course will have the necessary breadth of work for entry onto a Degree or Foundation degree in Art and Design.• Some students study a one year full-time Art and Design Foundation course before progressing to degree level. A few students go directly into work related areas. Typical career options include fine art, illustration, textile design, interiors, fashion design, fashion promotion and three-dimensional design, including jewellery, costume and theatre.• Combines well with many other subjects at A level including other Art, Design or Media A levels.

Course SummaryArt, Craft & Design is a multi-disciplinary course which involves working with a wide variety of techniques and processes. In the first year, the course expands and develops students’ practical skills, knowledge and understanding of materials. Students will learn a wide variety of drawing, printmaking, craft and textile techniques and will create exciting contemporary artwork in two and three dimensions. This is deal if you want to explore processes and techniques from across the department.

During the second year the course seeks to build on the knowledge gained during the first year and develop the ability to work independently through sustained investigations, development of ideas and in depth analysis. Students will work on a variety of briefs but they will be more personally directed and in depth. The conclusion of the 2 year A level course will be for students to present two components of work in the form of a portfolio with an externally set assignment.

Specific entry requirementsIt is recommended that you have a grade 5 or above in an Art or relevant Technology subject. If this is not applicable, you should bring a small portfolio of work to your enrolment interview.

Being open to experimentation and to trying new things, as well as having a creative outlook and a willingness to work hard, is highly valued.

Physics - A LevelHead of Department: Nick Everett

Email: nick.everett@qmc.ac.uk

Fact File• Two year linear A Level Course (AQA Physics)• 100% Examined (plus a practical endorsement)• Physics is essential for many Engineering courses and good for scientific degrees too• Lots of enrichment opportunities, competitions, talks and trips• Taught in state of the art laboratories• A facilitating subject that is respected by both universities and employers

Course SummaryPhysics is the study of EVERYTHING! From the origin of the Universe itself to the tiny structure of the fundamental particles it consists of; the entire history of time and space! It is often known as the fundamental science, the branch that studies the natural phenomena of the Universe and tries to determine the laws that govern our lives. Whilst theoretical Physicists ask the really big questions such as; “How did the Universe begin?” and “How does the sun keep shining?” other physicists apply their understanding to solve problems. They develop new forms of energy production and design new medical scanners and radiotherapy treatments for cancer. No matter what interests you have, there is an area of Physics for you.

Specific entry requirementsTo ensure you have the best possible chance of success in Physics, you are required to have obtained at least grade 6 in both GCSE Core and Additional Science, a grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics and 5 or better in GCSE English. If you have studied the three sciences separately at GCSE you should have obtained at least a grade 6 in Physics and one of the other sciences. You will also be required to study A Level Maths alongside A Level Physics.

Progression skills and opportunitiesPhysicists solve ‘real world’ problems using mathematical reasoning, sound arguments and reliable evidence, skills you will develop on this course. During your studies you will learn how to perform investigations in our state of the art laboratories; you will learn how to collect and interpret data, and how to use this evidence to explain interesting phenomena. You will be required to clearly communicate the reasoning behind your conclusions using logical steps that others can follow.

Royal College of Art, London College of Fashion, Royal School of Needlework, UCA (Farnham,Epsom), UAL (Kingston, Camberwell), Manchester Metropolitan, Bournemouth, Falmouth,Brighton, Winchester and UWE (Bristol).

How is the course assessed?The course is divided into 18 Units which are all equally weighted. 9 units are completed in year 1 for the Subsidiary Diploma and 9 units in year 2 to complete the Extended Diploma which is equivalent to 3 A levels. Each unit is marked at Pass, Merit or Distinction.

What topics will I be studying?• Painting and Drawing• Printmaking• Textiles• Digital and film photography• Illustration• Typography• 3D Design• Contemporary Fine Art• Digital Art• Branding

Will I need any specialist materials or equipment?The studio fee of £125 per year covers most of the materials that students will require. Students may wish to purchase additional craft materials to develop additional skills within their area of interest. There will be the opportunity to take part in a residential trip.

Physicists develop strong logical, numerical, problem solving skills that will make you an attractive prospect for many different employers from a variety of different industries. Physicists are in demand in engineering fields of all types; but also in areas as diverse as medicine, archaeology, police work, environmental science, aerospace and accountancy for example: the list is almost endless.

How is the course assessed?The new linear A Level Physics course will be assessed by your performance in three exams at the end of the second year. These exams are synoptic and between them, will cover all the elements from the entire two years of study. Each exam is 2 hours long and will contribute 33% to your final A Level grade. There is no longer any coursework that contributes to your final A Level grade: this final grade will purely depend upon your examination performance. Practical work will still form an integral part of the course, but a separate ‘practical endorsement’ will provide evidence of your successful development of laboratory skills. PASS or FAIL will be added to the final certificate, next to your grade.

What topics will I be studying?1. Measurements & Errors The fundamental units of measurements, plus the study of errors and their significance.2. Particles & Radiation The fundamental properties of matter, electromagnetic radiation and quantum phenomena.3. Waves The properties and applications of waves, including refraction, diffraction and interference4. Mechanics & Materials The influence of forces, energy and momentum plus a study of material properties.5. Electricity The fundamentals of electricity through the practical investigation of electrical circuits.6. Further Mechanics & Thermal Physics Circular & simple harmonic motion and the properties and nature of ideal gasses7. Fields & their consequences A great unifying idea of Physics, how gravitation, electrostatics and magnetic field theory link.8. Nuclear Physics The nucleus and nuclear power from an understanding of the link between mass and energy.Plus one optional topic chosen from the list below:9. Astrophysics The study and interpretation of the universe and the principles behind the devices used.10. Engineering Physics The applications of rotational dynamics and thermodynamics.

Will I need any specialist materials or equipment?You will need a number of course booklets, revision guides and practical equipment but everything you require will be provided as you contribute towards these as part of your course costs. Your teacher may recommend other books for study and revision but it is up to you whether you buy these or access them in the College Library.

Cliddesden Road, Basingstoke, Hants, RG21 3HF Tel: 01256 417500 Email: info@qmc.ac.uk www.qmc.ac.uk