Why should I study Physical Education?

Physical Education is an interesting and challenging subject. With the ever increasing popularity of leisure and recreation in society, there are many career options following on from this subject. The course is based around developing a knowledge and understanding of the effects of a healthy and active lifestyle, as well as biomechanical, physiological and psychological aspects which optimise performance.

What will I study?

AS Units
Unit 1

• Topics within this module include anatomy and physiology (in respect to exercise), skill acquisition and opportunities for participation
• You will also be required to apply your theoretical knowledge to practical situations

This represents 60% of the total AS Level mark.

Unit 2

• You will be assessed on your performance core skills
• You will also need to analyse and evaluate your performance, as well as apply theoretical knowledge to the performance
• You must be assessed in 2 roles from performer, official, judge, leader or coach.

This represents 40% of the total AS Level mark.

A2 Units

Unit 3

• Topics include physiological and psychological factors which optimise performance and contemporary issues and influences in sport
• You will be expected to apply your knowledge in given situations
  This represents 30% of the total A Level mark.

Unit 4

• You will be assessed on your performance of core skills/techniques in your choice of sport in a competitive situation
• You will also need to analyse and evaluate your performance, as well as apply theoretical knowledge to the performance
• You must also highlight 6 weaknesses and suggest 6 appropriate corrective measures

This represents 20% of the total AS Level mark.

What are the entry requirements?

Normal college entry requirements plus BTEC Sport (Merit/Distinction) or GCSE PE grade C or Science/Biology grade C. GCSE Science/Biology grade C would be desirable.

What skills do I need?

Some personal involvement in sport (at any level)
Confidence to lead / interact with groups.

How will I be taught?

A variety of teaching methods are used, ranging from PowerPoint presentations, to practical sessions to research lessons. A Level PE is the study of sport, and as such contains large sections of theory.

How is the course assessed?

AS
Unit 1: Written paper, 2 hours.
Unit 2: Written/practical coursework

A2
Unit 3: Written paper, 2 hours
Unit 4: Written/practical coursework.

What will this course prepare me for?

PE Teaching, Sport and Exercise Science, Sport and Recreation, Personal Training, Sports Physio, Sport Psychology, Diet and Nutrition for Athletes and any career in the sport and leisure industry.
Other Information
The PE Department also offers the CSLA Award (Community Sports Leader Award – Level 2). This award is a follow on from JSLA and will be beneficial to those taking A Level PE and HLSA (Higher Sports Leader Awards).

Private Study

As an approximate guideline AS subjects require 3-4 hrs of independent study each; A2 subjects 4-5 hrs each and GCSE subjects 2 hrs each.

What materials will I need to purchase?
The recommended textbook is the AQA specific textbook, AQA Physical Education published by Nelson Thornes.

A "starter pack" is offered on arrival in September – including personalised tshirt and whistle.

Examining Board

AQA

A Level Physical Education is the course for you if

You have a passion for sport, exercise and fitness; if you are a strong performer in sport and if you do well in exams.

A Level Physical Education is not for you if

You are not a specialist in one or two sports, struggle in exam conditions and not prepared for high theoretical classroom content.

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