Physical Education
Head of Department Mrs R S Masterman
Exam board AQA
Qualification name Physical Education
Qualification codes GCE AS: 7581 GCE A Level: 7582
What you will study
Lower Sixth
- Applied anatomy and physiology
- Skill acquisition
- Sport and society
- Biomechanical movement
- Sport psychology
- Sport and society and the role of technology in physical activity and sport
Upper Sixth
- Applied anatomy and physiology
- Skill acquisition
- Sport and society
- Exercise physiology
- Biomechanical movement
- Sport psychology
- Sport and society and the role of technology in physical activity and sport
How you will be assessed
The A Level is taught as a tw0-year linear course, with assessment occurring after two years.
Pupils can decide if they wish to sit the AS examination during the Lower Sixth as the first year content mirrors the AS content. It should be noted, however, that the mark will NOT contribute to the final A Level grade.
Paper 1: A two-hour written paper (35% of A Level)
Section A: Applied anatomy and physiology.
Section B: Skill acquisition.
Section C: Sport and society.
Each section contains multiple choice questions, short answer questions and extended writing questions.
Paper 2: A two-hour written paper (35% of A Level)
Section A: Exercise physiology and biomechanics.
Section B: Sport psychology.
Section C: Sport and society and technology in sport.
Each section contains multiple choice questions, short answer questions and extended writing questions.
Non-exam assessment: (30% of A Level)
Students are assessed as performers/coaches in a full sided version of their chosen activity.
Written analysis of performance; internally assessed, externally moderated.
Why choose Physical Education?
Studying Physical Education at A Level enables those with a real interest in sport and PE to undertake a subject where credit can be gained through both their practical and theoretical ability.
Course requirements
It is preferable, but not essential, for students to have studied PE at GCSE. Students should have ability in at least one sport for practical assessment purposes. An interest and passion for sport and related issues is important.
Related subjects at Sixth Form
A Level Biology (energy production and muscle contraction), Psychology (individual differences such as aggression, anxiety and arousal), Physics (bio-mechanics) and Ethics (drug taking) are all complementary choices for PE students, but PE can be studied successfully alongside all other courses.
Where could this lead?
Various sport-related degrees such as sports science, sport nutrition, sport strength and conditioning, sport psychology, recreational management and teaching.
Further important information
The subject is always taught by two members of staff, one male and one female. We have expertise in many areas and, combined with the school’s excellent facilities, we can provide interesting challenges that enable our students to reach their potential in both the practical and theoretical areas.
