Physical Education

Physical Education AS and A2



QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
As part of an advanced level programme, a minimum of 4 GCSEs at grade C or above (or the equivalent). A grade C in English and Maths is essential. A grade C in PE is also desirable but not essential. To have studied GCSE Human Biology, Psychology or P.E. would be helpful, but not by any means essential. It is important to have an interest in the development of different sports and aspects of human performance. You should also be proficient in at least one of the activities offered.

LENGTH OF COURSE
AS Level is one year, followed by a second year for those progressing to A2 Level.

WHERE NEXT?
A large percentage of students progress onto Higher Education to study Sports or Human Performance related degrees, Physiology, Psychology, Sports Science and other related disciplines. Sport and Physical Education is a growing A level and future careers may include work in the sports management and leisure industry among others.

AS CONTENT
UNIT 1 - 1½ hrs (40% of marks)
Physiological and psychological factors which improve performance.
UNIT 2 -1¼ hrs (30% of marks)
Socio-Cultural effects on participation in physical activity.
UNIT 3 - Coursework (30% of marks)
Personal performance portfolio and practical performance in 2 activities.

A2 CONTENT
UNIT 4 1½ hrs (15% of total A level marks)
Historical studies and Psychological factors which optimise performance.
UNIT 5 - 1½ hrs (17½% of total A level marks) Exercise physiology and synoptic assessment.
UNIT 6 - Coursework (17½% of total A level marks)
Analysis of factors which optimise performance and practical performance in 2 chosen activities.

HOW WILL I STUDY?

T he bulk of A-Level Physical Education is theory (3 lessons) with the emphasis on theory learned through practical demonstration and various exercises. 2 practical performance lessons will be spent developing and analysing performance in activities chosen from the list below.

The full A Level course is 70% theory and 30% practical. You are prepared for four written modular examinations and two practical performance modules. The AS course is 70% theory and 30% practical. Of the three modules, one is performance based.

Various sports will be covered leading to assessment in 2 activities from an extensive list:

Athletics Soccer Badminton Tennis
Basketball Table Tennis
Cricket Squash
Hockey Swimming
Netball
Rounders
Rugby

Lesson material is divided into three main areas: physiological aspects, psychological aspects and socio-cultural aspects of Physical Education. The College has a partnership with the John Sandford Sports Centre to use its specialist facilities.

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