A Level Physical Education
Leisure, Travel and Tourism
What will you be working towards?
| Alternative Title | Physical Education A Level |
| Code | PE |
| Qualification Type | GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent |
| Qualification Level | Level 3 |
| Course type | Full Time |
Overview
The scientific study of exercise, health and sport.
The scientific study of exercise, health and sport is big business, from the riches of professional sport to the equally important personal fitness sector. The impact of sport on both our individual lives and the global economy cannot be overstated.
A level PE covers an incredibly diverse range of topics. You learn about how the body works: anatomy, physiology and biomechanics, how performance can be enhanced, analysed and monitored and about the multiple health benefits of physical activity. For example, did you know that inactivity is costing the NHS around £7.4 billion a year?
You will study psychology, nutrition, sports injury prevention and management and sports business to understand the financial side of the sports industry. You will also gain an understanding of the role that sport played in the past and the role it will play in the future.
Essentially, you will develop the skills of a scientist as well as those of an arts student. Increasingly, Physiotherapy courses accept PE as an alternative to Biology, for example Nottingham University.
"The lessons are always really inclusive which is really good. There are lots of whole class discussions as well as small groups which helps you understand the concepts better as you hear other people’s ideas." KANE, PE student
Details
Topics
Year 12
Scientific Principles
- Applied anatomy and exercise physiology (musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory, neuromuscular, energy systems, diet & nutrition and training principles).
- Biomechanics (motion and forces applied to physical activity).
Psychological & Social Principles
- Sport psychology (factors affecting performance - personality, arousal, anxiety, aggression, motivation and dynamics of group processes).
- Skill acquisition (theories of learning & performance that underpin coaching principles).
- Sport and society (impact of ethics on sport including deviance in sport, the growing influence of the commercialisation of sport and the relationship of sport & the media).
Year 13
Practical Performance
- Assessed as a performer or coach in one sport. You do not need to be a high-level performer to study A level PE.
- Technology underpins the whole course whether enhancing, analysing or monitoring performance (you’ll have access to university science labs and some of the latest equipment for analysing health and exercise).
How will it be delivered?
Entry requirements
GCSE grade 6 or Merit in PE (or similar subject title) AND Mathematics or a Science
OR GCSE grade 6 in English (Language or Literature) AND Mathematics or a Science. Must also have minimum grade 4 in PE, if studied.
Minimum Entry Admissions Score applies