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Physics
Head of Department: Mr O Bowden
Mrs F Clements
Mrs S Gurteen
Mr J Handscombe
Mrs N Keeler
Technician: Mrs J Story
Accommodation and Resources
The Physics Department has three well-equipped Physics laboratories, serviced by a central preparation room. Physics is taught with great emphasis on learning through practical experience, and resources within the department are such that girls are able to work individually or in pairs. Each laboratory has a computer and LCD projector enabling access to the internet and the school network. The department has invested in a range of software simulations to enhance the girls' understanding of some of the more complex concepts and ideas covered on the course. The use of ICT is integrated into the programmes of study and is used for data collection, data handling and independent learning.
Lower School
The Physics elements of the National Curriculum are covered but not necessarily in the prescribed order. Some additional topics such as digital electronics are also included.
Upper School
All girls continue to study Physics to GCSE as part of their co-ordinated Science programme following the Edexcel IGCSE specifications. It may be taken either as a separate GCSE taught for four periods a week, or as part of the Double Award qualification, where it is taught for three periods a week. The Double Award course leads to an amalgamation of the Biology, Chemistry and Physics marks presented as two identical grades.
Sixth Form
Physics is at the heart of everything and is a highly rewarding discipline to study at school and beyond. The AS and A level course is equally accessible to girls who have taken either Physics or the Double Award Science course. In addition to the core modules at AS level, the girls have the opportunity to study an optional topic, choosing from Astrophysics, Nuclear and Particle Physics, Medical Physics and Materials Science. Girls will also have the opportunity to attend lectures at the Cavendish Laboratories, Cambridge and the University of London, Institute of Education.