What is it?
Our A Level Electronics qualification provides learners with a broad, coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study. It encourages learners to develop confidence in, and a positive attitude towards, electronics and to recognise its importance in their own lives and in today’s technological society. The qualification ensures that learners have the electronic and mathematical knowledge and electronic engineering skills to solve problems. The course of study has a strong emphasis on practical work.
Why study this subject at Blackpool Sixth?
The UK has the 6th largest Electronics industry in the world. There is a shortage of specialists in this area. It is interesting, technically challenging and we are the only place to study A level Electronics in the area. The subject combines well with Physics or Computing and Maths. It is an ideal A level if you are considering a career in any sector of Engineering, Computing or Physics.
What skills will I develop?
Practical circuit design, use of circuit simulation software, mathematical skills, use of test equipment, microcontroller programming, circuit analysis
How will I be taught?
Mix of teacher led and practical activities
How will I be assessed?
80% Exam-based, 20% coursework.
Teacher expertise
Your teacher has 11 years experience teaching A Level Electronics
Field trips, projects and employability opportunities
Large upper sixth practical project and visits to the industry; ideal for entry into apprenticeships.
Where does it lead?
Recent students have progressed to university to study electronic engineering and related courses. Others have been successful in securing apprenticeships, including with BAE Systems. Others have combined with physics, maths and computing to access a wide range of exciting careers.
Equipment
Scientific calculator
Examination board
EDUQAS
Specific Requirements
- Grade 5 in GCSE Maths plus grades 6 and 5 from GCSE Combined Science (higher tier), or grade 6 in GCSE Physics. No prior electronics experience is required.
What will I study?
Year 1
1. Semiconductor components 2. Logic systems 3. Operational amplifiers 4. Signal conversion 5. AC circuits and passive filters 6. Communications systems 7. Wireless transmission 8. Instrumentation systems
Year 2
1. Timing circuits 2. Sequential logic systems 3. Microcontrollers 4. Digital communications 5. Optical communication 6. Mains power supply systems 7. High power switching systems 8. Audio systems
Coursework
Task 1 (20 marks) – involves the development of a microcontroller system programed through assembler language.
Task 2 (50 marks) – is a substantial system development including analogue and digital sub-systems in an integrated design.