The physics department at Warwick School is made up of six highly qualified specialist teachers, with our approach placing strong emphasis on hands‑on investigation and whole‑class experimental work.
STATE OF THE ART LABS
Physics taught as a separate subject from Year 8 onwards. We are proud to offer five state‑of‑the‑art laboratories dedicated exclusively to physics. Each lab is equipped with laptops and smart data‑logging devices, allowing pupils to monitor, analyse, and interpret experimental results in real time. This technology-rich environment encourages boys to explore their interest in physics through practical discovery wherever possible.
Our curriculum builds strong foundations in Years 7–9 and prepares pupils for success at GCSE and beyond. Through an engaging programme of study, boys develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to enjoy the subject and achieve their potential.
Year 7 – 9
In Year 7, pupils are taught physics, chemistry and biology as a single science subject, devolved into specialist topics. In the first two years of senior school, pupils are introduced to the following major themes of physics: Light, Space and the solar system, Forces, Energy, Electricity and magnetism.
- Pupils make use of our lab equipment and work through these topics directly.
Towards the end of Year 7, and again in Year 8, pupils undertake independent investigations that are designed to develop their analytical skills – applying their knowledge gained from Year 7 and 8. These vary in complexity, and past examples included investigating and presenting evidence for the moon landings and building paper rockets that can travel over 100m.
GCSE
In Year 9, we commence the AQA GCSE Physics course, building on the knowledge, understanding and experimental skills already gained from previous years. Pupils begin to link mathematical concepts with experimental observations and are encouraged to develop critical-thinking skills as part of their investigations.
Most pupils continue with physics as a separate science award up to GCSE level, but some have the option at the end of Year 9 to move to the combined science pathway if preferred.
SCIENCE IN ACTION
Science in Action offers pupils the opportunity to undertake some extended science practical work. Ideal for those who love to experiment, investigate and ponder… but without the pressure of any write-ups or exams.
Freed from the confines of the syllabus, Science in Action runs a carousel of biological, chemical and physical science activities, which give pupils the chance to see some of the synthesis, analysis and applied techniques more commonly used in undergraduate laboratories.
Those choosing this course will have the opportunity to work alongside pupils and teachers from other schools and as such develop better communication skills as they form efficient working relationships. There is a degree of responsibility – some of the techniques require careful risk assessment, whilst the quality of products and results will depend upon each pupils’ own experimental diligence, as well as their ability to work in a team.
Having undertaken the first year of Science in Action, pupils may apply to carry out an independent research project. With limited places, commitment and aptitude must be shown, but the potential payoffs are huge. Working independently in Warwick School’s research-standard laboratories, pupils have the opportunity to genuinely contribute to the progress of the group’s work and get a privileged insight into the world of scientific research.
