Physical Education
"Intelligence and skill can only function at the peak of their capacity when the body is healthy and strong”
J F Kennedy Studying the A level PE course will deepen existing and explore new knowledge and skills to help you as individuals lead an active healthy lifestyle.
Our Curriculum
A level Physical Education extends and deepens knowledge learnt at GCSE, such as Anatomy Physiology, and introduces students to new concepts such as Sports Psychology and Socio-cultural issues which influence sporting performance.
Content
The A level PE course consists of four different areas and is assessed through three separate examination papers and the NEA; Physiological factors affecting performance, Psychological factors affecting performance, Socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport and Performance in physical education
Below is a list of the different topics within these areas;
Unit 1: Physiological factors affecting performance – theory element (2 hour paper).
Students will study Applied anatomy and Physiology, Exercise physiology and Biomechanics of movement.
Unit 2: Psychological factors affecting performance – theory element (1 hour paper).
Students will study Skill acquisition and sports psychology.
Unit 3: Socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport – theory element (1 hour paper)
Students will study Sport and society and Contemporary issues in physical activity and sport.
Unit 4: Performance in physical education (Practical assessment and live analytical presentation)
Students will need to provide video evidence for their chosen practical performance as a performer or a coach and complete an evaluation and analysis of performance for improvement task (verbal assessment).
Exam Board and Specification
Exam board: OCR
Exam specification: A Level Physical Education H555
Entry Requirements
Please see the entry requirements document here
Is This Course Right For Me?
A balanced and healthy active lifestyle is essential for everyday living. Participation in physical activity has an impact upon this. On this course you will learn about the factors which impact upon participation and performance. You will learn not only about the physiological and psychological but also the socio- cultural issues which impact participation and performance. You will also have the opportunity to critically analyse performance and suggest improvements that could be made. From a practical stand point this course is better suited if you are regularly participating in sport on the prescribed OCR list or coaching regularly one of these sports as these form part of your formal assessment. This course follows on nicely from the GCSE/BTEC course and for anyone that is interested in the factors which impact upon participation and performance.
Please watch our short video to see what studying Physical Education at Guilsborough Sixth Form is like.
PE is my favourite subject, it has helped me develop and extend my knowledge further from GCSE ……. I like that we have a variety of ways to learn in the lessons
James, Year 12 student
I like learning about how the body works and how it relates to sport and draw upon this to improve at my own sport
Ben, Year 12 student
Where will A Level Physical Education take me past Sixth Form?
CAREERS
The skills studied and knowledge learnt at BTEC PE and the skills developed are used in many careers such as
- Education
- Sports journalism
- Fitness instructor
- Coaching
- Physiotherapy
- Sports development.
Please visit out Careers Guidance page for more information
UNIVERSITY
Some examples of universities and their entry requirements to study PE and other related degrees are;
Birmingham University Sport, PE and Coaching Science BSc (Hons) requires AAB or ABB.
Brighton University Sport Management BSc (Hons) requires BBC - CCC
Leeds University Sports Science and Physiology BSc (Hons) requires AAB
University of Southampton Physiotherapy BSc (Hons) requires AAB
University of Bedfordshire Sport and Physical Education BA (Hons) requires 112 points inc. 2 passes at GCSE or BTEC Level 3.
University of Exeter Exercise and Sport Science BSc (Hons) requires AAA/ABB A level