Physical Education

Exam Board: OCR

Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in PE GCSE or Distinction in Cambridge Nationals Sports Studies | Grade 6 in biology/combined science

What will you learn?

In A Level PE, you will gain a deeper understanding of key systems in the body and how they react to changes in diet and exercise. You will also study the effects of force and motion on the body and how they can be used to our advantage. You will explore the psychological factors affecting performance and group dynamics alongside skill acquisition. You will also study the social and cultural factors which have shaped sports over time. You will be assessed in the role of either a performer or coach in one practical activity. You are required to show high level tactics/techniques and will observe then evaluate a peer's performance

• Physical factors affecting performance (30%)
• Psychological factors affecting performance (20%)
• Socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport (20%)
• Performance in physical education (30%)

What does the assessment look like?

You will sit three separate papers, one of these is 90 minutes and the other two papers are 60 minutes.

You will also be assessed as a performer or coach. You will be required to demonstrate high analysis and evaluation skills in your coursework element.

Choose this subject if you…

• are passionate about sport and play competitively outside of school.
• are interested in sports science, psychology, biomechanics, sociology and the history of sport.

What can an A-level in this subject lead to?

Students taking physical education can go on to study any of the following at university. Physical Education also presents students as a well-rounded individual who will contribute further to university life.

• Exercise and sport science
• PE QTS (teacher degree)
• Sports Coaching
• Sport psychology
• Sports journalism
• Physiotherapy
• Sports rehabilitation

Recommended reading:

• Soccernomics by Simon Kuper & Stefan Szymanski
• Faster by Michael Hutchinson
• Bounce by Matthew Syed
• The Sports Gene by David Epstein