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What kind of person do I need to be?
You will need to have a flair for subjects like maths, science,
technology and ICT. Having a creative approach to problem
solving will be an advantage, as will good powers of
observation, attention to detail and the ability to analyse large
amounts of data. Being methodical and logical in your approach
to work will also be a necessary requirement. Depending on
your job role you may need to manage projects, budgets and
people; interpret technical drawings, produce scientific repor ts,
use computer aided design software, maintain an awareness of
legal regulations and in some instances provide medical care.
Physics
What skills will I learn?
Studying physics will help you to improve your critical thinking
and problem solving skills. You’ll learn how to conduct
experiments, apply mathematical formulae, analyse results
and draw a conclusion. Physics will give you an insight into
the laws that govern the physical world and develop your
ability to communicate complex ideas. You’ll find that the skills
acquired in working with physics cross over into other science
disciplines such as biology and chemistry. In a diverse range
of job roles you could be designing and developing engineering
systems, producing lighting effects for the enter tainment
industry, managing water resources, predicting weather
patterns or using technical equipment in a health care setting.
How do I get there?
To work successfully in physics you will need a relevant degree
and may need to study for a postgraduate qualification such
as an MSc, MPhil or PhD. For some career paths your degree
will need to be recognised by a professional body. Technical
routes are also available through foundation degrees and Higher
National Diploma courses. Alternatively, if you are keen to
work in a scientific suppor t role you could study for a Diploma
in Applied Sciences or Laboratory Science. Apprenticeships
and other on the job training oppor tunities offer an alternative
progression route. A good star ting point for apprenticeships
is to achieve a minimum of 5 GCSEs including English,
mathematics and science at Grade C or above.