BELFAST HIGH SCHOOL
PHYSICS
The Physics Department at Belfast High School aims to inspire and educate students in the field of Physics, fostering a deep understanding and appreciation of the subject through innovative teaching methods and a supportive learning environment.
Head of Department
Mr C Spence BSc PGCE
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Teaching Staff
Mr D McClelland BSc PGCE
Mrs K Rowney BSc PGCE
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Technician
Mr W Agnew FInstP
CURRICULUM
Key Stage 3
Pupils study a range of topics which build on their experiences of the World Around Us (Science and Technology) in primary school. Pupils study an Introduction to Physics, Forces, Density, Magnetism, Electrostatics, Earth and Space, Energy, Electricity, Moments, Speed, Light, Sound and Pressure. They also develop a range of subject-specific skills, such as practical techniques throughout their Key Stage 3 study.
GCSE
At GCSE, pupils follow the CCEA specification. In Year 11, pupils study Motion, Force, Energy, Density, Kinetic Theory, Radioactivity, Nuclear Fission and Fusion. In Year 12, pupils study Waves, Light, Electricity, Magnetism, Electromagnetism and Space Physics. In addition, pupils complete practical skills work throughout both years of study, completing their practical assessment in Year 12.
A Level
At A Level, pupils follow the CCEA specification. As part of their AS Level course, pupils study Forces, Energy, Electricity, Waves, Photons and Astronomy. At A Level, pupils study Deformation of Solids, Thermal Physics, Circular Motion, Oscillations, Atomic and Nuclear Physics, Fields, Capacitors and Particle Physics. They also develop their practical techniques and data analysis skills across the two years at A Level.
Co-curricular Activities
Pupils have opportunities to represent the School through the Sentinus Research and Design Project (KS5) and Aerospace Rocketry Challenge (KS3).