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Physical Education

A Level / 2 year Course / AQA

A Level Physical Education aims to introduce students to the factors that influence the world of sport in terms of participation and improving performance. The course requires students to be assessed in both theory and practice so a reasonable standard of performance is required. There is no requirement to have studied GCSE PE.

More on this course

  • Applied Anatomy and Physiology: Have you ever fallen gluteus maximus over pectoralis major?
  • Skill Acquisition: Ever been tricked by a psychological refractory period?
  • Sport and Society: Will womens’ prize money ever be greater than mens’ in sport
  • Exercise Physiology: Find out what your fibre type says about what sport you should play.
  • Biomechanical Movement: How is it that Usain Bolt looks like he is getting faster when he is actually slowing down?
  • Sport Psychology: Want to know how to get over those pre-race nerves and find out your ZOF?
  • Role of Technology in Sport: Find out why they substitute your favourite player when he was playing so well.

Assessment

The Physical Education A Level is a linear course with a combination of assessment by coursework and examination. There are two written examinations at the end of Year 13, each worth 35%. The remaining 30% entails the students being assessed on their physical ability in a single sport. This can be as a performer or coach, so a reasonable level of physical competence or sporting knowledge is essential.

Skills and Careers Insight

A Level Physical Education equips you with in-depth knowledge of human physiology, sports science, and performance analysis, while developing critical thinking, leadership, and teamwork skills. You'll learn how to improve physical fitness, understand the impact of exercise on the body, and explore sports psychology and coaching. These skills open doors to careers in sports coaching, physical therapy, sports management, fitness training, and health education. Whether you aim to work as a PE teacher, sports psychologist, fitness instructor, or in the sports industry, A Level Physical Education provides a strong foundation for a rewarding and active career.

Subject Combination

This subject and its content would be ideally suited alongside the following subjects.

Biology

Chemistry

Law

Psychology

Business

Geography

History

Student Testimonials

What do our students think about studying here?

I think the best thing about Durham Sixth Form Centre is the fact that it’s a mature environment and it gives you the independence you need.

Sam Henig

Previous school - Wellfield School

I think Durham Sixth Form Centre is a perfect choice because the lessons are well planned and there is a brilliant balance between independent learning and support from all teachers.

Hannah Warwick

Previous school - Hermitage Academy

When I was in Year 11, the biggest worry for me was the transitional period between Year 11 and Year 12. But the support and the teachers made this so much smoother for me moving from my secondary school to Durham Sixth Form Centre.

Jenni Fairish

Previous school - Whitworth Park Academy

The atmosphere and quality of teaching at Durham Sixth Form Centre is very impressive and you can see a great deal of passion from the educators, which is something I believe is very important.

Logan Aitchinson

Previous school - Park View School

Even if you start Durham Sixth Form Centre with no idea where you’re going, you will get the opportunities to talk about your future and go through it and you’ll know what you’re doing later on.

Alice Robson

Previous school - Belmont School

Durham Sixth Form Centre stood out to me for its amazing choice of subjects. I struggled to find anywhere else that would accommodate all my subjects and my specific combination.

Abbie Clifford

Previous school - Hermitage Academy