Physical Education A Level
If you love playing sports, have a desire to gain a deeper understanding of the scientific and socio-cultural factors that underpin physical activity and perform regularly in a sporting discipline, then studying AQA Physical Education A Level at York College is a great move. A Level PE is accepted by all top Russell Group universities and will prepare you for further study in sports science, research, or wider disciplines such as sociology, psychology, sciences and physiotherapy. As well as knowledge, you will develop many transferable skills to help at university and entry into industry.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 4 subjects at grade 5 or above at GCSE including English Language and Mathematics. In addition, you must have a grade 5 in GCSE Science. You must play competitive sport and be able to evidence participation in competitive sport through practical video footage throughout the duration of the course.
You will be required to provide evidence you play competitively for a sport club outside of school. To do this you can provide a letter from the club or the name of a contact at the club along with the club name. Please email the information to info@yorkcollege.ac.uk before 30th June.
What will I study?
The specification covers topics including:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Exercise
- Biomechanics
- Skill acquisition
- Psychology
- Technology in sport
- Sport in society
Method of delivery
This course blends theory and practical, with students undertaking 5 hours of academic tutorial per week and participating in sports.
How will I be assessed?
75% of the course assessment is graded through two examinations and 25% awarded based on practical performance in a sports discipline.
Paper 1: Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport with assessment on:
- Applied anatomy and physiology
- Skill acquisition
- Sport and society
Paper 2: Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport with assessment on:
- Exercise physiology and biomechanics
- Sport psychology
- Sport and society and technology in sport
Non-exam assessment:
Practical performance in physical activity and sport: you'll be assessed as a performer or coach in the full-sided version of one activity plus written/verbal analysis of the performance.
Good course combinations
This course combines well with most other A Levels.
Your next steps
Physical Education lends itself to a range of careers in sports and fitness, as well as other industries that you may not have considered before. For example, did you know that many nutritionists, physical therapists and chiropractors have a degree in PE? Some careers that you could consider doing having studied PE include:
- Sports science
- PE Teacher
- Physiotherapist
- Professional Sportsperson
- Sports Coach/Consultant
- Sports policy at local and national level
- Diet and Fitness Instructor
- Personal Trainer
Sport, Exercise & Health Mix
A Level & Mix
Subject Area
Sport & Uniformed Service
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
2 Years
Level
Level 3
Policing & Criminal Justice Mix
A Level & Mix
Subject Area
Sport & Uniformed Service
Study Mode
Full-time
Start Date
September 2026
Duration
2 Years
Level
Level 3
