Physical Education - A Level

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Qualification:  A Level Physical Education

Exam Board:  OCR

A Level Physical Education is a dynamic and engaging course that combines the study of sport, exercise and performance with practical sporting experience. You will explore topics such as anatomy and physiology, sports psychology, biomechanics and the social and cultural influences on sport, while developing your ability to analyse and evaluate performance. The course encourages critical thinking, leadership and a deeper understanding of physical activity, making it an excellent choice for students interested in sport, coaching, physiotherapy, sports science, teaching and a wide range of related careers.

What our students say about this course

Year 13 student

"I am studying PE, Psychology and Biology. The P.E. Department has been helpful in preparing me to pursue my aim of becoming a strength and conditioning coach. I'm a trampoline gymnastics coach, and these subjects have continued my professional development in this area.

After Coombe I'll be working for Kingston Trampoline Academy, then I'll be attending St. Mary's University Twickenham to study Strength and Conditioning Science."

Course Content

  • The course explores the scientific, psychological, and social factors that underpin elite sports performance and physical activity.
  • It builds on GCSE PE across four areas: Applied Anatomy and Physiology, Sports Psychology, Socio-cultural issues, and Practical Performance.
  • The theory is academically rigorous, requiring a strong interest in biology, the ability to apply psychological theories, such as arousal, anxiety, and personality to athletic success and the ability to critically analyse contemporary issues in the sporting world.

 

Assessment

Students will cover theory lessons for three different sections of the specification that is assessed across three papers.

Paper 1 covers the units of: applied anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology and biomechanics.

Paper 2 covers the units of: skill acquisition and sports psychology.

Paper 3 covers the units of sport in society and contemporary issues in physical activity and sport.

Students will also be  assessed in one activity in the role of performer or coach. Plus complete a written/verbal analysis of performance. An external moderator will visit Coombe to complete our final practical assessment.

 

Entry Requirements

Minimum of Grade 6 in GCSE PE (or Grade 6 in Science if PE was not taken).

Must regularly train and compete in one sport from the specification.

Grade 5 may be considered for those competing at an exceptional / national level.

Progression Post 18

This course provides a robust foundation for degree courses in Sports Science, Physiotherapy, Psychology, and Education, and is frequently paired with Biology or Sociology to access competitive medical programs. Furthermore, it is an ideal springboard for Higher Apprenticeships in personal training.

Many of our past students have gone onto university to study related courses such as Sports Science, Sports Rehabilitation,  Physiotherapy, Sports Management, PE  Teaching, Sports Coaching and Sports  Psychology. A Level PE can also lead to careers in the leisure and recreation industry, the police or the armed forces. 

 

Careers

This course provides the essential scientific foundation for careers in Physiotherapy, Sports Medicine, and Osteopathy, as well as specialised roles in Performance Analysis, Sports Psychology, and Exercise Physiology.

For those interested in the broader sporting landscape, it also paves the way for careers in Sports Journalism, Sports Marketing, Sports Law, or PE Teaching, equipping you with the analytical and leadership skills valued across these diverse sectors.

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