Physics
When you look at the night sky and wonder if there is life beyond us, then the answer lies in physics. Physics is the natural science that studies matter, its motion and behaviour through space and time, and the related entities of energy and force. Physics is one of the most fundamental scientific disciplines and its main goal is to understand how the universe behaves.
Look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see, and wonder about what makes the universe exist. Be curious.
Physics is a practical subject and the department aims to teach as much of the material as possible through experimental exploration in all years. The department has a wide range of apparatus from the latest in deflection E/M tubes and digital video cameras through to the traditional apparatus needed for studying the classical ideas that will always form the basis of the subject. Teaching is similarly diverse with modern techniques such as mathematical modelling used whenever it will develop understanding of complex phenomena.
Physics offers Chase Grammar School students at GCSE and A-Level breadth and depth, and will provide a perfect opportunity for those pupils wishing to pursue Physics or a related degree at University.
Energy is liberated matter, matter is energy waiting to happen.
The Physics department arranges visiting speakers and discussion groups while individual or small group extension classes are offered at all levels in the school to challenge our most able students. Our students are entered for the British Olympiad Competition in the Sixth Form, with regular Gold Awards at all levels.
Career Options
Career paths are varied for those studying Physics. Science is a major path for physicists, whether it is a pure science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) or an applied science (like biophysics or nanotechnology). Engineering, architecture, electronics, various mechanical design courses can also be followed by Physics students. Physics students are in demand by financial institutions after graduation as the skills they develop are used, for example, as part of predictive modelling of stock markets. The same skills can also be used in areas not initially associated with Physics, such as Law.