This Parent Q&A page has been created to support you in teaching the topic Work, Energy and Power: How Things Get Done as part of your home education journey. The topic is part of physics, but don’t worry — you don’t need to be a scientist to understand it or to help your child learn. We’ve explained everything in clear, simple language, with no jargon or complicated maths.

The subject explores how things move and why. It covers what “work” really means in science (not housework!), where energy comes from, and how power shows how fast energy is used. These ideas help explain everyday things like why your phone needs charging, how your body uses food, and what makes machines work.

The Q&A format gives you straightforward answers to the kinds of questions children aged 8–16 often ask while learning this topic. It’s designed for flexibility — you can use it as a conversation starter, a teaching guide, or just something to build your own confidence. Whether you’re learning alongside your child or just need a few key facts to guide them, this page offers helpful, no-pressure support for real-life learning at home.