Physical Education A Level

A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths, Grade 5 or above in Biology or grade 5:5 in Combined Science.  Grade 4 or above in GCSE PE (if taken); Pass or above in BTEC Level 2 Sport (if taken).

This course will appeal to you if you enjoy playing sport and want to know about human psychology, human physiology, and the role of sport in society today. There will be both the opportunity and expectation to continue to improve your team sports through the Wednesday afternoon sports programme and after college clubs. Many students take a diverse range of subjects alongside PE because of its broad focus across sport and physical activity.

Theory lessons look at how the body reacts to exercise, how sports psychology impacts performance and the social reasons for the importance of physical activity. Practical lessons generally occur in the winter term and the second half of the summer term. There are close links with a range of subjects, usually A Level Biology, Psychology, Maths and Sociology.

Two written exams at the end of two years, worth 70%, a performance assessment and two pieces of coursework including a practical assessment in a sport of your choice, worth 30%.

You will be well prepared for degree courses such as BSc or BA in sports studies, sports science, recreation & leisure studies, PE teaching and physiotherapy. Employment areas include the health and fitness business, Armed Forces (PTI), sports coaching, sports development, sports administration, event management, sports journalism, and media.

There is an extensive recreational sports programme including sports teams in football, rugby, hockey and netball. There are also various extra-curricular sports clubs, with more of a recreational focus such as badminton, volleyball and the tennis academy.