Step up from GCSE science into rigorous scientific reasoning and problem-solving. At LMSC, A-level Physics is taught in real time by specialist teachers in small, focused groups. Every live session is recorded, so you can revisit challenging concepts, practise mathematical application, and build confidence tackling exam-style physics problems.
A-level Physics is a rigorous and intellectually demanding course that develops a deep understanding of how the physical world works, from everyday motion and energy to electricity, fields, waves, and the structure of matter. It combines mathematical modelling, experimental investigation, and conceptual reasoning to explain both familiar and cutting-edge phenomena.
At London Maths & Science College (LMSC), A-level Physics is delivered through live, teacher-led lessons by highly qualified subject specialist physicists. Teaching is structured, exam-focused, and supported by worked examples, practical demonstrations, and regular problem-solving practice. All live sessions are recorded, allowing students to revisit complex ideas and strengthen understanding at their own pace.
The course follows the Pearson Edexcel A-level Physics (9PH0) specification and places strong emphasis on practical skills, data analysis, and the application of mathematics in physics. Students develop confidence in designing experiments, interpreting results, and evaluating uncertainty, alongside mastering the theoretical content required for top grades.
A-level Physics is particularly well suited to students who enjoy logical thinking, problem-solving, and applying mathematics to real situations, and who are considering progression to Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Medicine, Architecture, Natural Sciences, or other STEM-related university courses.
Mechanics
Quantities & units; vectors and scalars
Kinematics (SUVAT, graphs, projectile motion)
Forces, Newton’s laws, momentum & impulse
Work, energy & power; conservation laws
Materials
Solids, liquids & gases
Density, pressure, upthrust
Stress, strain, Young modulus
Elastic and plastic behaviour
Waves & Optics
Wave properties (speed, frequency, wavelength)
Superposition, stationary waves
Diffraction & interference
Refraction, reflection, polarisation
Electricity
Electric charge, current, potential difference
Resistance, I–V characteristics
DC circuits, Kirchhoff’s laws
EMF, internal resistance, power
Particle Physics
Fundamental particles & interactions
Antiparticles and annihilation
Quarks, leptons, hadrons
Particle accelerators and detectors
Quantum Phenomena
Photoelectric effect
Wave–particle duality
Energy levels and spectra
Electron transitions
Fields
Gravitational, electric & magnetic fields
Field strength and potential
Motion of charged particles in fields
Capacitors and energy storage
Electromagnetism
Magnetic flux & flux density
Forces on current-carrying conductors
Electromagnetic induction
Alternating current (AC) and transformers
Nuclear & Astrophysics
Radioactive decay and half-life
Nuclear reactions and binding energy
Stellar evolution
Cosmology: red shift, Hubble’s law, Big Bang
Practical Skills & Data Analysis
Core practical experiments (PAGs)
Experimental design & risk assessment
Measurement uncertainty & error analysis
Graphing, data processing, evaluation
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, applying physics principles to unfamiliar and multi-step problems
Mathematical modelling, using algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and vectors to describe physical systems
Ability to interpret and manipulate data, including graphs, tables, and equations
Experimental and practical skills, including planning investigations, controlling variables, and evaluating methods
Understanding and application of measurement uncertainty, errors, and significant figures
Logical reasoning and scientific thinking, forming hypotheses and testing them against evidence
Clear scientific communication, explaining reasoning using correct terminology, symbols, and structured arguments
Confident use of technology and calculators while showing full working
Exam readiness: timing, method-mark strategy, accuracy checks, and resilience under pressure
Transferable skills valued across STEM: critical thinking, precision, independence, and persistence
This course is well suited for students who:
Enjoy understanding how things work and explaining physical phenomena logically
Are confident using mathematics to model real situations (algebra, graphs, equations)
Like solving structured, multi-step problems rather than memorising facts
Are considering STEM degrees or careers, particularly Engineering, Physics, Medicine, Architecture, Natural Sciences, or Computer Science
Are curious about the fundamental laws of nature, from forces and energy to particles and the universe
Prefer a subject that combines theory, calculation, and practical investigation
Are organised and willing to practise regularly to master problem-solving techniques
Value expert teaching, clear explanations, and exam-focused preparation
Students who dislike mathematics or algebra-based problem solving
Learners who prefer mainly essay-based or descriptive subjects
Those looking for a light workload or minimal independent study
Awarding body: Pearson Edexcel
Qualification: A-level Physics (9PH0)
Assessment structure:
3 written papers
Paper 1: Advanced Physics I (mechanics, materials, waves, electricity, practical skills)
Paper 2: Advanced Physics II (fields, nuclear & particle physics, medical/astrophysics, practical skills)
Paper 3: General & Practical Physics (synoptic problem solving and practical analysis)
Duration & weighting:
Paper 1: 2 hours — 30%
Paper 2: 2 hours — 30%
Paper 3: 2 hours — 40%
Question style:
All questions are compulsory
Combination of short-answer, structured calculations, extended responses, and practical/data-analysis questions
Strong emphasis on application of mathematics and interpretation of experimental data
Practical assessment:
No coursework; practical skills are assessed through written questions
Students complete required core practical activities during the course, which are examined in Papers 1–3
Calculator use:
Calculators permitted in all papers
Full working and correct units must be shown
A Mathematical Formulae & Statistical Tables booklet is provided in the exam
Exam series:
Normally sat in the May/June examination series
Exam location (LMSC Hybrid route):
Exams are sat in London at LMSC’s JCQ-approved exam centre
(International centres may be available for non-hybrid pathways, subject to product route.)
Grading:
Grades awarded from A to E*, based on combined performance across all three papers
To succeed on this mathematically demanding and conceptually rigorous course, students should meet the following criteria:
GCSE/IGCSE Physics or Combined Science:
Grade 7 or above in Physics (or Physics component of Combined Science) strongly recommended
A strong Grade 6 may be considered with evidence of mathematical strength and a diagnostic assessment
GCSE/IGCSE Mathematics:
Grade 7 or above recommended
Students must be confident with algebra, rearranging equations, graphs, ratios, and basic trigonometry
International qualifications:
Strong performance in Grade 10 Physics and Mathematics (or equivalent), demonstrating readiness for algebra-based physics and problem solving
Mathematical readiness:
Students should be comfortable with:
Algebraic manipulation and substitution
Interpreting and sketching graphs
Using standard formulae confidently
Working with powers, standard form, and units
Admissions assessment (if required):
A short diagnostic test may be used to confirm suitability, particularly for students entering from non-UK curricula
Bridge support (where appropriate):
Students who meet the minimum threshold but need consolidation may be required to complete a foundations module covering:
Algebra for physics
Graph skills and data interpretation
Core mechanics concepts
Scientific notation, units, and uncertainty
On successful completion of the course, students will be awarded the Pearson Edexcel A-level Physics (9PH0) qualification, graded A–E* following three externally assessed written examinations.
By the end of the course, students will have developed:
Secure conceptual understanding of core physics principles across mechanics, waves, electricity, fields, nuclear and particle physics, and astrophysics
Mathematical fluency in physics, confidently applying algebra, trigonometry, graphs, and calculus-style reasoning to model physical systems
Experimental competence, including planning investigations, analysing data, evaluating uncertainty, and drawing evidence-based conclusions
Scientific reasoning and problem-solving, tackling unfamiliar, multi-step questions and justifying methods and assumptions
Clear scientific communication, using correct terminology, units, symbols, and structured explanations
Exam readiness, with strong timing control, method-mark strategy, accurate calculator use, and resilience under pressure
Students also leave with a portfolio of assessed work—including timed papers, practical analysis tasks, and examiner-style feedback—supporting predicted grades, academic references, and progression planning.
A-level Physics provides a strong foundation for progression into STEM-focused university degrees and a wide range of scientific and technical careers.
University pathways
Students commonly progress to degrees in:
Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Aerospace, Chemical)
Physics and Theoretical/Applied Physics
Natural Sciences
Computer Science, AI & Robotics
Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences (with appropriate subject combinations)
Architecture & Design Engineering
Astronomy, Astrophysics & Space Science
Materials Science & Nanotechnology
Geophysics, Environmental & Climate Science
Complementary subject combinations
A-level Physics works particularly well alongside:
Mathematics — essential for engineering and physics pathways
Further Mathematics — strengthens applications to highly selective STEM courses
Chemistry — for chemical engineering, materials science, and medicine-related routes
Computer Science — for robotics, AI, and computational physics
Admissions value
Physics is widely regarded as a facilitating subject by universities
Many competitive courses require or strongly prefer Physics, especially in Engineering and Physical Sciences
The subject demonstrates strong quantitative reasoning, problem-solving, and scientific literacy
Careers and future pathways
The skills developed support careers in:
Engineering and technology
Scientific research and academia
Medicine and healthcare technology
Renewable energy and sustainability
Aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing
Data, modelling, and simulation roles
LMSC progression support
UCAS application guidance and subject-combination advice
Predicted grades and academic references
Support for admissions tests and interviews where required
Results-day support, including Clearing and next-step planning
Explore other programmes that pair well with A Level Physics or extend your specialist focus.
Book a consultation for tailored guidance on admissions, timetable planning and portfolio preparation. We will map a personalised progression route for your ambitions.
Course highlights
