Electronics is taught as a stand-alone subject at A Level, where
it belongs to the suite of Science subjects. The Department
features a well-equipped laboratory which allows students access to
the latest instrumentation and test apparatus.
The A Level Electronics course offers students the chance to
learn the theoretical and practical skills required to design and
build electronic circuits. The course starts by building upon basic
electrical principles learnt in GCSE Physics and quickly progresses
onto more complex circuits. Much of the course material is covered
through practical work and students will learn to use professional
test equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal generators and
frequency analysers. The course includes the use of professional
software for circuit design and simulation. Concepts such as radio
communication and the mobile telephone network are covered, as well
as microprocessors and robotic systems.
Electronics lessons also form a vital part of the Design and
Technology courses, especially at A Level where Product Design
students may opt to follow a 'Systems and Control Technology'
module which focuses on the practical use of electronics within the
design of a product.
Boys are introduced to Electronics in their Design and
Technology lessons in year 7, and the subject is further developed
through years 8 and 9, with pupils becoming proficient in the use
of electronic systems to meet specific needs. Boys also learn how
to write computer programs to provide microprocessor control in
practical applications.
At GCSE, boys are able to design and make their own electronic
product as part of the 'Product Design' course. This exciting
course rewards innovation and encourages boys to design with flair
and ingenuity.
The Department runs co-curricular clubs for Electronics and
Mechatronics - these are very popular venues for the development of
a huge range of electronic and robotic projects.
There are a number of national competitions in which boys can
gain recognition for their project work, including Young Engineers,
YEDA, UK Robotic Games, Micromouse and Technogames. The Department
has enjoyed significant success over a number of years in
connection with these initiatives.
Head of Department
C J Walker, BSc
Members of the Department
P J Humphrey, BSc