Physics
Pre-U Physics is a rigorous and academically stretching course which is particularly well suited for students who are hoping to study Science or Engineering at university. The syllabus follows similar contours to A-level but has more content and is more challenging. The level of demand is reflected in the assessment, such that the highest distinction grade is deemed higher than A* at A level.
The Pre-U is a linear course, which means that exams are taken only at the end of the Upper Sixth. This means that students opting for Pre-U are committing for two years of study. They are taught in separate Pre-U classes, but it is normally possible for a student to transfer to an AS class during the Michaelmas Term of the Lower Sixth should they find the course too challenging. Students studying Pre-U have no AS Physics score to submit in their UCAS application, but this should not disadvantage them if they have very good GCSE results. We set a mock exam at the end of the Lower Sixth, and high scores in this can be included in a UCAS reference. Coursework consists of a two week personal investigation similar to that at A level, where the student chooses their own topic and creativity is encouraged.
