Physical Education

What will I learn?

The theory content of the course focuses on the following topics on which you will be examined:

• Applied Anatomy and Physiology
• Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanics
• Skill Acquisition
• Sport Psychology
• Sport and Society

The practical content involves two sections:

• Assessment in one sport as a coach or performer
• Coursework involving evaluation of performance for improvement

How will I be assessed?

Assessment in A-Level PE has three strands:

• Written exams on the theory content
• Practical assessment in one sport as a coach or performer
• Coursework assessment on evaluation of performance for improvement

A Level Assessment Overview

Three exams on (70%):

• Physiological factors affecting performance
• Psychological factors affecting performance
• Socio-cultural issues in physical education

Performance in physical education (30%):

• Performance or coaching in one sport
• Evaluation and Analysis of Performance for Improvement

The vast majority of the A-Level PE course is the study of theory work. Students must have a conscientious and committed approach to their studies to be successful. Students need to be able to assimilate information, analyse this information and apply it to relevant sporting examples. Finally students need to be playing one sport to a good standard (club/county) outside of school.

Where can my qualifications take me?

A-Level Physical Education will prepare you excellently for University studies of Sport and Physical Education. Furthermore the course will prepare you for employment in the sports and leisure sector including jobs such as a sports scientist, teacher, coach or physiotherapist.

Physical Eduction A Level Specification

OCR Cambridge Technicals - Physical Education

Key Stage 4 and 5 (Sport and Physical Activity)

This qualifications will give pupils an understanding of the essential skills when you are looking to build a career in the sports sector. The qualifications will give pupils an insight into various occupational routes (Teacher, Coach, Sports Management, Sports Scientist, Personal Trainer), that can be pursed within the sports sector. This qualification will also support pupils in their progression into employment or move onto further education.

OCR Cambridge Technical – SINGLE (Extended Certificate, 360 credits)

The course is adapted to meet pupils’ aspirations; it consists of THREE MANDATORY units (Body Systems and the Effects of Physical Activity, Sports Coaching and Activity Leadership and Sports Organisation and Development) plus a choice of up to NINE OPTIONAL units (which will total 120 credits of the 360).

OCR Cambridge Technical – DOUBLE (Diploma, 720 credits)

The course is adapted to meet pupils’ aspirations; it consists of NINE MANDOTORY units (Body Systems and the Effects of Physical Activity, Sports Coaching and Activity Leadership, Sports Organisation and Development, Working Safely in Sport, Performance Analysis, Organisation of Sports Events, Physical Activity for Specific Groups, Sports Injuries and Rehabilitation, Practical Skills in Sport) and 4 OPTIONAL units (which will total 120 credits out of the 720).

How will I be assessed?

The OCR Cambridge Technical (Including the Certificate or Diploma) will consist of a both examinations and assessed coursework through a range of activities. This may include practical assessments, coaching, video analysis, written work, oral presentations and also through formal examinations. Learners will receive regular feedback on their progress throughout the course and work towards a grading criteria provided by OCR. All assessed work will be in reference to a grading criteria.

Employment Opportunities

There are a variety of employment opportunities available to pursue after the completion of this course. This may include a career in teaching, personal trainer, sports coaching, sports development, organisation of sports events and even sports science. Throughout the course, pupils are also given opportunities of meaningful employment – for example assisting our School Games Organiser in local events, shadowing members of staff and even completing coaching badges. This qualification can lead you to full-time employment in the above roles and / or into further education at university.

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