Good Physics Tutor

10/07/2026

Beethoven and the acceleration of free fall.

07/07/2026

Why do some students seem to improve rapidly after completing a past paper, while others keep making the same mistakes?

The difference is often what happens afterwards.

In my latest article, I explore why past papers should be treated as diagnostic tools, not simply another revision activity. Instead of focusing on marks and grades, learn how to use mark schemes, examiner reports and targeted follow-up activities to identify weaknesses and make meaningful progress.

The most valuable information in a past paper is often found in the questions you couldn't answer.

Read the full article here:
🔗 The Most Effective Part of Completing a Past Paper Is What Follows
https://www.goodphysicstutor.co.uk/good-physics-tutor-blog/a-level-physics-blog/ -follows-a-past-paper

Articles on A-Level Physics study skills, problem solving, exam technique, Isaac Science, mathematics for Physics and preparation for university STEM courses.

06/07/2026

How Much Independent Study Do A Level Students Need?

One of the biggest surprises for many Year 12 students is that simply completing homework is often not enough to achieve the grades they aspire to.

Many capable students arrive at sixth form with strong GCSE results and continue doing everything their teachers ask of them. Yet they can still find themselves underperforming because A Levels demand something different: independent learning between lessons.

In this new article, I discuss:
✅ Why homework alone is often not enough
✅ The transition from GCSE to A Level study habits
✅ How independent study supports ambitious academic goals
✅ Why I encourage students to track study time rather than just completed tasks
✅ How school study periods can reduce pressure on evenings and weekends
✅ Why a study target can act as both a minimum and a maximum, helping students avoid both under-studying and over-studying

Perhaps the most important question isn't:

"Have I finished my homework?"

but:

"Are my study habits consistent with where I want to be in two years' time?"

📖 Read the full article here: https://www.goodphysicstutor.co.uk/good-physics-tutor-blog/a-level-physics-blog/ -much-independent-study

05/07/2026

Starting A-Level Physics this September?

The long gap between GCSE exams and the start of Year 12 can leave students feeling a little rusty just when A-Level Physics is about to get more demanding.

In my latest blog article, I explain why I recommend Daily Workout Book 1 by Lewis Matheson as a practical way to keep Physics and mathematics skills active over the summer. The real value isn't just the questions themselves – it's developing the habit of engaging with Physics regularly through short, manageable daily tasks.
If you're moving from GCSE to A-Level Physics (or supporting someone who is), this article may be useful.

🔗 Read the full article here: https://www.goodphysicstutor.co.uk/good-physics-tutor-blog/a-level-physics-blog/ -workout

Articles on A-Level Physics study skills, problem solving, exam technique, Isaac Science, mathematics for Physics and preparation for university STEM courses.

04/07/2026

Bridging the gap: GCSE → A Level Physics this September?

One of the biggest challenges students face is not the physics itself, but the jump in mathematical and problem-solving demands. A Level questions require deeper thinking, stronger algebra skills, and greater confidence applying ideas in unfamiliar situations.

In my latest blog post, I explain why this transition can feel difficult and how the free Isaac Physics GCSE to A Level Transition Question Deck can help students prepare over the summer. It is one of the best resources available for building problem-solving skills and developing the independent study habits needed for success at A Level.

If you're a Year 11 student considering A Level Physics—or a parent wondering how to support the transition—this article may help.

🔗 Read the full article here: https://www.goodphysicstutor.co.uk/good-physics-tutor-blog/a-level-physics-blog/ -the-gap

Every year, many students finish GCSE Physics with a solid grade, only to discover that A Level Physics feels like a completely different subject. The mathematical demands increase significantly, problem-solving becomes more sophisticated, and students are expected to apply concepts in unfamiliar co...

27/06/2026

Physics Tutor for GCSE, A-Level and Key Stage 3
With over 40 years' experience teaching Physics and Astronomy to students aged 11–18, I help students build confidence, strengthen understanding and improve exam performance.
My approach is calm, structured and supportive. I identify gaps in understanding, explain concepts clearly, and provide personalised guidance to help students make steady progress and achieve their potential.
Qualifications
🎓 BSc Physics (University of Manchester)
🎓 PGCE (Chelsea College, University of London)
🎓 MSc Science Education (Manchester Metropolitan University)
🎓 Chartered Physicist (CPhys)
🎓 Member of the Institute of Physics (MInstP)
Lessons available
✅ Online nationwide using Microsoft Teams and OneNote
✅ In person in Wickford and nearby areas including Billericay, Rayleigh, Basildon and South Woodham Ferrers
✅ Current enhanced DBS certificate
If you'd like to discuss how tutoring could help, please get in touch using any of the contact methods on this page.

10/05/2026

This astronomy app from Richard Wood looks interesting and useful:

08/05/2026

This is interesting (to a Physics tutor and perhaps a Physics student)

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ben-rogers-b63846272_my-new-blog-explains-why-physics-english-ugcPost-7457049670947782656-1I-g

My new blog explains why physics English is different to plain English - and what teachers can do about it.

20/04/2026

Worth listening to, this new programme from Jim Al-Khalili.

Listen to the latest episodes of Writing the Atom on BBC Sounds.