University applications
For those thinking about about applying to university to study a Physics related subject the following links might be useful. When writing your personal statement for your UCAS application it essential that you have done Physics related things beyond the curriculum. Visit the extra curricular section for information on extra reading and things you can watch to enhance your statement. Once you have completed a draft of your statement your Physics teacher will be happy to read it and give you feedback.
Institue of Physics- University Physics courses
Guide to applying for Physics related courses at university including what to consider when applying and a Physics course search
Lets you search for all courses across the world and helps you develop your personal statement and application
Centralised admission system providing information on the applications process and lets you search for courses
Search for taster days in subjects you're interested in to explore what studying at university will be like
Apprenticeships
For those not wanting to go to university apprenticeships provide an opportunity to go directly into employment and be paid to train on the job. Some apprenticeships offer degrees alongside working, for those who would still like a university qualification. Some of the most competitive apprenticeships will even pay your course fees so are well worth considering applying for. There is no centralised application centre like university applications and different companies open and close applications at different times. The below links should provide you with further information about possible opportunities. Opportunities are also posted regularly on the M6 noticeboard.
Institute of Physics- career pages
Provides information on apprenticeship opportunities, how to apply and possible career progression
Lots of information on all apprenticeships and how to apply
Government apprenticeship search
Government website allowing you to search for various available apprenticeships
Work
Experience
Towards the end of year 12 you will have the opportunity to carry out work experience in an area of your interest. This is a great opportunity to try out your potential career to see if it is right for you. If you are interested in careers in Physics the below employers might offer work experience opportunities, some virtual, some in person. Work experience needs to be organised by you and the sooner you start arranging it the more successful you are likely to be with securing a placement.
Local opportunities:
Renishaw, local world leading engineering and scientific technology company
Ecotricity, UK's first 100% Renewable energy provider
Bristol NHS. Opportunities in Medical Physics and Bioengineering
GE Aerospace. Aeronautical engineers specialising in world-leading jet engines
National opportunities:
Met Office. Meteorology and weather forecasting
British Antarctic Survey. Research in Antarctic Science
National Physical Laboratory. UK's leading Metrology (precision measurements) institute.
Rolls-Royce. Engineers of complex power and propulsion solutions
Siemens. Technology company focused on industry, infrastructure, transport, and healthcare.
National Nuclear Laboratory. UK’s nuclear research and development organisation
Rutherford Appleton Laboratories. Laboratories carrying out pioneering work in areas such as particle physics, scientific computing, laser development and space research.