A-level physics highly rated by undergraduates, survey finds

However, the survey, commissioned by physics charity The Ogden Trust, also indicated that the response to GCSE-level physics was more problematic.  

The study asked 1,004 current undergraduates about their opinions on the subject, half of whom are currently studying STEM and half non-STEM disciplines at a university in the UK, and all of whom had taken A-levels in England. 

While three-quarters (76 per cent) of students who took A-level physics said they had enjoyed studying it, a slightly higher proportion than those who took other STEM subjects, two-fifths (42 per cent) of those who chose not to continue to do so cited a lack of enjoyment at GCSE as the main reason, followed by a quarter (24 per cent) who cited poor teaching. 

The same proportion (24 per cent) also said that physics had ‘no relevance’ to their future and one in five (19 per cent) blamed a lack of encouragement by teachers. 

The Ogden Trust said entries for A-levels are showing an increase in numbers, but figures remain at less than five per cent of the total number of A-level entrants, and many from underrepresented groups face barriers to participation and progress. 

The survey found that at A-level, physics was well taught according to 85 per cent of students, who also scored it highly for having effective teacher advocates (83 per cent) and being inclusive (90 per cent). 

The study also showed that seven in ten (68 per cent), including those who didn’t take the subject beyond GCSE, acknowledged that physics A level made a positive contribution to a student’s prospects. Only maths, chemistry and economics scored higher. 

Eight in ten (83 per cent) said their teachers had strong specialist knowledge, three-quarters (76 per cent) said they were encouraged to study it by their teachers and family and friends, a similar proportion agreed that the subject’s relevance to future jobs and academic progression was made clear, and seven in ten (70 per cent) said that the content taught was relevant to them in their daily lives. 

In a statement, Clare Harvey, chief executive of The Ogden Trust, said: “It is unsurprising to see that those who do take physics further have a positive experience at A level – this just serves to highlight the value of excellent teachers.  

“If students are to continue studying physics beyond GCSE, teachers – especially the growing number having to teach the subject when it is not their main specialism – must be given up-to-date resources and the professional support that will allow them to deliver lessons confidently and accurately.” 

The full report, ‘Insights and experiences of school physics,’ can be accessed and read in full here.