Academic PE

Physical Education can be studied as an optional subject at both GCSE and AS/A2 Level. Both levels are interesting and challenge the way pupils traditionally view the subject.

The School follows the EDEXCEL exam board syllabus for GCSE and OCR for AS & A2 levels, and there is a requirement for both a good level of practical ability and theoretical understanding.

At GCSE Level, Physical Education has a 60:40% weighting in favour of practical aspects, with all candidates assessed in four different practical areas. These tend to be chosen from Rugby, Soccer, Cricket, Rounders, Badminton, Rowing, Swimming, Personal Survival and Fitness Training. However where a pupil has a clear expertise in an activity not taught within the curriculum (e.g. Golf), it may be possible to get video evidence to support the marks given by an external coach.

The theory aspect of the GCSE takes a predominantly physiological approach, looking at fitness and health, cardiovascular and respiratory systems as well as safety, diet and training principles.

At AS and A2 there is a shift in weighting, to 70% theory and 30% practical for AS and 80% theory and 20% practical for A2. Two practical areas are assessed at AS with a piece of verbal coursework and one practical activity and an extended verbal resposne at A2, and there are two written theory exams each year. Theory topics covered include the Comparative Studies, History of Sport, Skill Acquisition, Psychology Of Sport, Anatomy & Physiology and Exercise Physiology.