Subject Intent: Why Physical Education?
In this modern era it is important that students understand the importance of exercise and our Physical Education curriculum is designed to enable learners to become confident, resilient and healthy learners; both theoretically and applied practically and encourage a lasting interest in sport and physical recreation. Applied general and A-level routes require students to be meta-cognitive and self-regulating in their grasp of exercise physiology and each route demands a confidence in applying this knowledge into different roles within challenging environments (for instance, community fitness centres or competitive sport).
What will I study?
We study the OCR A-level Physical Education specification.
Paper 1
- Applied Anatomy and Physiology.
- Exercise Physiology.
- Biomechanics.
Paper 2
- Skill Acquisition.
- Sports Psychology.
Paper 3
- Social and cultural factors influencing sport.
- Contemporary influences in modern day sport.
Physical Education
Please note: Subject videos have been filmed from colleges across our Trust.
What are lessons like in this subject?
Sports psychology and skill acquisition PE lessons often require practical examples and so local community sports clubs are utilised for practical application of content eg. golf, squash or climbing. Exercise physiology lessons require developing understanding of training and so local community gym facilities are used to support this area of A-level PE eg. spinning, strength training or cardio sessions.
One competitive sport is practically assessed and contributes 15% towards your final grade. Filmed evidence from college Wednesday afternoon fixtures is sent to the exam board as moderation evidence. The full list of sports is available on the OCR A-level PE website and the list of sports is distinct and non-negotiable. You will take part in a practical moderation day annually at Hull university as part of this course alongside students from across the Trust. Classroom lessons have variety: physiology, biomechanics, psychology, history and sociology underpin the lesson content on A-level PE.
What our
students
This course allows for a great understanding of everything to do with sport including both the theory side and physical side of it. It allows you to build confidence in your sport and your knowledge in how the body works and the work that is needed to put in to succeed. It also helps develop the social side of things for example leadership and teamwork through the amazing opportunities given to you throughout the year.
Isabelle Wiltshire, Castleford academy