Physical Education AS & A Level
You’ll study a variety of different units to develop and enhance your sport knowledge, under the guidance of our experienced tutors.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 4 subjects at grade 5 or above at GCSE including English Language and Maths. In addition, you must have a grade 5 in GCSE Science and a grade 6 in GCSE Physical Education (if taken). 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 submit a 10 minute video of you playing your selected sport to ensure you meet the requirements of a competitive athlete/player. We will contact you to arrange this after you have submitted your application.
What will I study?
- Factors Affecting Participation in Physical Activity and Sport
- Applied Anatomy and Physiology
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanical Movement
- Sport and Society and the Role of Technology in Physical Activity and Sport
Method of delivery
You will typically be in College four days per week, with lesson style varying according to subject. In-College delivery is supported by online resources, and students develop strong independent learning skills to equip them for their next steps.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed through two linear examinations. In the AS Level, 80% of the content is examined. The other 20% is assessed through coursework and practical sports performance. In the A Level, the practical and coursework component make up 15% of the assessment framework.
100% theoretical delivery. You will need to submit video evidence of competitive participation in your chosen sport for the practical element of the course. Please note that we can support in practical evidence gathering for York College Centre for Sport students.
Good course combinations
This course combines well with most other A Levels.
Your next steps
This course could lead to opportunities to study physical education, sport studies, sport science, physiotherapy, sports therapy, recreation and leisure studies, sports management, sports coaching. These are established higher education progression routes. Sports-related qualifications help those wishing to work with people such as teaching, leadership and coaching roles as well as roles in the police and the armed services. Past students have combined their academic and sporting pathways by taking up sport scholarships in the UK, Europe and America.
"I chose to do A Level PE as I've always enjoyed learning about how the human body works, as well as playing sport and learning about psychological and physiological ways to improve performance.
My overall favourite topic is injuries and rehabilitation techniques."
