THE TEAM

Miss D Palmer Deputy Head of Physical Education Miss E Hardy Teacher of Physical Education Mr M Price Teacher of Physical Education Mr J Richards Teacher of Physical Education

INTRODUCTION TO THE DEPARTMENT

Our vision for physical education and school sport is to engage and inspire all pupils. High quality teaching, learning and a diverse curriculum increases participation and encourages pupils to lead a healthy lifestyle, both physically and emotionally.

We aim to develop character, resilience and self-discipline in all sports and activities, whilst developing a sense of fairness and respect in all of our students. We encourage all our pupils to perform to their best in reaching their full potential, whilst developing a love for physical activity.

The extensive range of team and individual sports and activities we provide for students forms a vital part of our curriculum and life at St Peter’s school.

WHY STUDY PHYSICAL EDUCATION?

A Level Physical Education builds on the knowledge and skills developed at GCSE, allowing students to explore key topics in greater depth. The course develops critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to apply theoretical concepts to both personal and elite sporting performance. The examined theoretical components provide the knowledge and understanding that underpin the practical and non-examined assessment elements.

FUTURE ACADEMIC AND CAREER PATHWAYS

A Level Physical Education provides an excellent foundation for further study at university, particularly in subjects such as Sports Science, Sports Management, Physiotherapy, Healthcare, Exercise and Health, and Physical Education. It also complements a wide range of other subjects, including Biology, Human Biology, Physics, Psychology, Nutrition, Sociology and Nursing.

The course can lead to a variety of exciting career pathways, including sports development, coaching, physiotherapy, personal training, nutrition, sports journalism and teaching. In addition, students develop a range of valuable transferable skills, such as critical thinking, analysis, evaluation, communication and independent learning, all of which are highly beneficial across many different careers and industries.

COURSE CONTENT

Students will be studying the AQA Syllabus.

Year 12

Component 1: Applied Anatomy and Physiology

Component 2: Skill Acquisition

Component 3: Sport and Society – the History of Sport

Year 13

Component 1: Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics

Component 2: Sports Psychology

Component 3: Sport and Society – Modern Sport

ASSESSMENT

70% of the course is assessed theoretically in two exams.

30% of the course is practically assessed by examining the student’s ability to perform in one practical activity, and through a written response. This component requires students to analyse and evaluate weaknesses in their sporting performance, including an action plan to enhance future performance success. 

EXTRACURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES

• Leadership opportunities within grassroots sport
• Educational visit to the Surrey Sports Park laboratories
• Sixth Form Sport Enrichment Programme

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Minimum grade 6 GCSE in Science and grade 6 GCSE in PE. A passionate and committed approach to the subject and a drive to study beyond the curriculum.