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COURSE oVERVIEW
Electronics is the study of the design, construction and testing of electronic circuits. As a branch of Physics, electronics is a combination of theory and practical skills. You will use mathematical formulae to predict the behaviour of circuits and choose the values of components. You will also develop skills in using test equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal generators and multitesters. No prior knowledge apart from GCSE level electrical theory is assumed. You will be surprised how quickly you will be able to construct your own working electronic circuits and find out how satisfying and enjoyable the subject is. As one of the most important industries in the 21st Century, the demand for students with this knowledge is higher than ever. The course combines perfectly with Maths and Physics and also with Maths and Computing.
EXAMINATION BOARD: eduqas
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Standard college entry requirements plus 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.
If you don’t meet these entry requirements, our Foundation Programme could help you start your journey at Blackpool Sixth.
a Level UCAS POINTS:
All A Level courses at Blackpool Sixth carry the same potential points based on the final grade.
Grade / UCAS Points:
A* / 56
A / 48
B / 40
C / 32
D / 24
E / 16
Why study A Level Electronics at Blackpool Sixth?
A Level Electronics offers students the opportunity to develop practical, analytical and problem-solving skills through the study of modern electronic systems and technology. This highly engaging course combines theory with hands-on practical work, allowing students to design, build and test electronic circuits while developing a strong understanding of how electronic devices shape the modern world. Students are taught by experienced and supportive staff in a nurturing learning environment where they are encouraged to think creatively, work independently and develop confidence in both practical and technical skills. Lessons use a wide range of engaging activities and real-world applications to bring learning to life, supported by excellent resources and specialist equipment. Electronics complements subjects such as Physics, Mathematics and Computer Science particularly well and helps students develop valuable transferable skills including logical thinking, resilience and precision. As technology and automation continue to expand across industry, electronics skills are increasingly valuable in a wide range of careers, including engineering, robotics, computing, aerospace, telecommunications and product design. As one of the few colleges in the region offering A Level Electronics, this course gives students with an interest in technology, innovation, and engineering a chance to study a specialist subject that is academically challenging and highly relevant to future careers and university study.
How will I be taught?
Mix of teacher-led and practical activities
Teacher expertise
Your teacher has 11 years of experience teaching A Level Electronics.
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 assessed?
80
%- 80% Exam-based
20
%- 20% Coursework
What will you study and other information about A-Level Electronics
- First Year
- Semiconductor components
- Logic systems
- Operational amplifiers
- Signal conversion
- AC circuits and passive filters
- Communications systems
- Wireless transmission
- Instrumentation systems
- Second Year
- Timing circuits
- Sequential logic systems
- Microcontrollers
- Digital communications
- Optical communication
- Mains power supply systems
- High power switching systems
- 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.
- Equipment and Financial contributions
The science department runs several trips and educational visits throughout the year to enhance the experience of studying science. There may be other non-essential educational visits that students can access during the two-year course, such as visits to zoos and museums.
Students must have a scientific calculator, we strongly recommend the Casio fx-83GTX – costs approximately £15 – £20, (if studying maths or further maths, the upgraded calculator you buy for these courses will be suitable). Students also need a 30cm clear ruler.
Software for Circuit Wizard is available from the college and is best used on a windows based laptop; alternatives are possible if you do not have a PC machine.
- 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.
Helping you to find your dream career
Blackpool Sixth is dedicated to helping students achieve their future goals. We offer support to our students to help them find the best path for their chosen career.
To see how this course links to career pathways and to career academies which you could join, click the links below.
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