Physical Education

Applications Open: 5th December 2025

Applications Close: 31st January 2026

Entry Requirements: 5 GCSE grades of 4 or above of which must include English & Maths. Then individual subject criteria

Science and Maths - require level 7 in subject to study (plus 6 in maths for science subjects)

Most other courses require level 6 to study

A Level Physical Education allows those with a keen interest and flair for sport to develop their theoretical understanding of the world of sport and physical activity.

The course is multidisciplinary and includes:

• Scientific components (Anatomy and Physiology, Biomechanics and Exercise Physiology)
• Psychological components (Skill Acquisition and Sport Psychology)
• Sociological components (Sport and society and any comparative issues in sport)
• The student’s practical ability is assessed in one area of physical activity, and coursework includes an analysis and evaluation of performance.

The A Level is assessed through two examinations, one written or verbal analysis of performance and a practical performance.

Paper 1 - Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport (Written exam: 2 hours, 105 marks, 35% of A-level)

• Section A: Applied anatomy and physiology
• Section B: Skill acquisition
• Section C: Sport and society

Paper 2 - Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport (Written exam: 2 hours, 105 marks, 35% of A-level)

• Section A: Exercise physiology and biomechanics
• Section B: Sport psychology
• Section C: Sport and society and technology in sport

Non-Examined Assessment: Practical performance in physical activity and sport: (Internal assessment, external moderation, 90 marks, 30 % of A-level.)

• Students assessed as a performer or coach in the full context version of one activity.
• Written or verbal analysis of performance.

Students will need a grade 6 or above in PE. For students who did not study PE at GCSE, this will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

The Leisure and Sport industry is still one of the fastest growing industries. There are a wide variety of related university courses and careers, for example: Sport Psychology, Physiotherapy, Sports Therapy, Sports Journalism, Sports Marketing, Sports Medicine, Sports Management, Sports Science, Coaching and Teaching to name a few.