Physical Education

The theory component of A-Level Physical Education is divided into three key areas, each offering fascinating insights into the science, psychology, and sociology of sport.

Exercise Physiology

This area explores how the body’s systems function during exercise. You’ll study topics like energy production, biomechanics, and the cardiovascular and muscular systems. The content is highly practical and directly relates to real sports performance.

Sport Psychology

Focusing on the mental aspects of sports performance, this section examines how factors such as confidence, stress, and the presence of an audience influence athletes’ outcomes.

Sport Sociology and Technology

This section considers how sport reflects broader societal issues. You’ll investigate topics such as racism, sexism, drug use in sport, and the impact of technological advancements on sports practices and performance.

The Physical Education A-Level programme opens doors to a wide variety of university courses and career opportunities. Many of our students progress to higher education, with popular options including sport-related degrees and careers in teaching.

Key pathways include:

• Sport-Related Degrees: Courses such as Sport Science, Physical Education, and Sports Coaching are popular choices for students passionate about sport.
• Careers in Medicine, Dentistry, or Veterinary Science: Studying PE alongside Biology and Chemistry is an excellent option for students aiming for medical or scientific fields.
• University Scholarships: Some students with outstanding sports performance secure scholarships at universities in the UK or USA, combining their education with athletic development.

Former students often return to share insights about their careers and university experiences, offering inspiration and practical advice.

Whether your passion lies in sports, health, or education, A-Level PE equips you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in a variety of disciplines.

The Physical Education A-Level course is assessed by AQA, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. 

Throughout the course, your progress will be monitored through homework, class tests, and College Assessment Points (CAPs).

Assessment Breakdown:

70% Theory-Based Assessment

Two exams contribute to the majority of your final grade:

• Paper 1: Covers Year 12 content.
• Paper 2: Focuses on Year 13 content.

30% Practical and Coursework Assessment:

15% Practical Performance:

• Assessment of your performance in one sport.
• You’ll need to provide video evidence of your performance in a competitive setting.
• If you don’t participate in a sport at a high level, you can choose rock climbing as an alternative.

15% Written Coursework

• An analysis of your own performance, completed in Year 13.

To enrol on the A-Level Physical Education course, you’ll need at least five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including a grade 4 or Merit in PE (if studied), as well as a grade 4 in English Language and Science. If you haven’t taken GCSE PE, you can still study A-Level PE at college – it’s not a mandatory requirement.

We also offer a Mixed Programme at Cardinal Newman, allowing you to combine A-Levels with BTECs. This option is ideal for students who may not be on track to achieve all five grade 5s but still want to pursue a challenging and rewarding academic pathway.