Studying A-level Physical Education will give you a fantastic insight into the amazing world of sports performance. Not only will you have the chance to perform or coach a sport through the non-examination assessment component, you will also develop a wide ranging knowledge into the how and why of Physical activity and sport. The combination of physical performance and academic challenge provides an exciting opportunity for pupils. You can perform, and then through the academic study improve your performance or coaching though application of the theory. Physical Education is studied though a range of different contexts and the impact it has on both ours and other’s everyday lives. You will learn the reasons why we do things, why some people out perform others, mentally and physically. You will also delve into the ethical considerations behind the use of drugs and also the influence that modern technology is having in and on physical activity and sport.
Grade 6-6 in GCSE Combined Science, B in GCSE Biology or 6 in GCSE PE Theory Paper. Although successful completion of a GCSE in Physical Education is desirable it is not essential. Work can be provided over the summer break to help bridge this gap in knowledge. However, it is a minimum requirement that pupils make a full commitment in either the role of a performer or coach inside or outside of School on a regular basis, including training and competition.
Course Outline
Component | Format | Weighting |
Physiological Factors Affecting Performance
Anatomy and Physiology; Exercise Physiology; Biomechanics |
Written examination | 30% |
Psychological factors Affecting Performance
Skill Acquisition; Sports Psychology |
Written examination | 20% |
Socio-cultural and Contemporary Issues
Sport, society and technological influences |
Written examination | 20% |
Performance within Physical Education
Practical Performance or Coaching; Evaluation and Analysis of Performance and Improvement |
Practical and
Oral presentation |
30% |
The course is taught through interesting and challenging learning experiences, linking key sporting ideas with practical performance and gaining insight into the relationships they have with each other. A typical lesson may commence in one of the theory classrooms before moving into a practical setting to see and experience first-hand the theoretical concepts in practice. The development of transferable skills including: decision making, psychological understanding of people, independent thinking, problem solving and analytical skills as well as thinking and acting under pressure.
University courses for which A-level Physical Education is an asset include: Sport and Exercise Science; Medicine; Psychology; Coaching; Sport Management; Exercise and Health. Career opportunities include: Medical Disciplines; Physiotherapy; Occupational Therapy; Dietitian; Teaching or Coaching; Sports Technology; Performance Analysis.