Physical Education A Level

Applications Open - 27th November 2025

Applications Close - 30th January 2026

Entry Requirements: Please refer to our website

How to apply: Please apply via Applicaa -

For Internal Students: Follow the link you have been sent by the school regarding your options.

For External Students: Please complete the application link below:

https://invictagrammar.applicaa.com/sixthform

The A Level specification is a linear course where students will sit all their exams and their non-exam assessment at the end of the two year course. A Level PE involves two papers. Paper one is based on factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport and paper two is based on factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport. Both papers involve multiple choice, short answer questions and extended writing.

Each paper is broken down into three units. The first unit that paper one comprises of is applied anatomy and physiology. During this topic, candidates will study the cardiovascular system, respiratory system, musculo-skeletal system and energy systems. The second unit is based on skill acquisition. During this topic, students will learn about principles of theories of learning and performance, use of guidance and feedback, and information processing. The final topic, sport and society, comprises of sub-topics relating to industrial and post-industrial sports and post-World War 2 sports. Paper two comprises of exercise physiology and biomechanics, sport psychology, such as personality, arousal, anxiety, motivation, goal setting and stress management. The final unit, sport and society and technology in sport, includes topics such as ethics in sport, drugs and violence in sport, and the impact of commercialisation on physical activity and sport. Students should note that the theoretical elements are worth 70% of the final grade.

The practical element of the course is worth 30% of the A Level and involves students being assessed as a performer or coach in a full sided version of one activity. Students must also complete a written analysis of their performance. It is strongly recommended that students participate in a sport outside of school and play competitively at either club, district or regional level.

Physical education offers students the ability to develop skills including leadership, team work and communication, which will transfer positively in higher education. In addition to careers associated with sport and teaching, this course might lead to such diverse careers as management and the medical field. One of the requirements to complete A Level PE is that the candidate participates in sport outside of school for a club and to a competent standard.

Practical: Practical Assessment and written analysis of performance. 30% of A Level.

Paper 1: Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport.
2 hour examination.
105 marks.
35% of A Level.

Paper 2: Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport.
2 hour examination.
105 marks.
35% of A Level.

6/above in GCSE PE. Students should also play in one sport at club, district or national level. Students studying PE BTEC courses are required to achieve a distinction star.