A-Level Physical Education Exam Board - AQA

Why study this subject?

Physical Education is a two year A Level course, in which students will undertake learning in both the theoretical and physical aspects of sport. This course is for those students who have an interest in studying the theory behind sport including historical issues, psychology of sports performance and understanding the physiology of the body. Students will develop practical skills, and will develop their research, group work and discussion skills. Students who

compete regularly in competitive sports outside of the Sixth Form will enjoy this course.

Paper 1: Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport

Section A: Applied anatomy and physiology

Section B: Skill acquisition

Section C: Sport and society

This is a two-hour written exam paper (35% of A Level).

Paper 2: Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport

Section A: Exercise physiology and biomechanics

Section B: Sport psychology

Section C: Sport and society and technology in sport

This is a two-hour written exam paper (35% A Level)

Practical performance in physical activity and sport

Students assessed as a performer or coach in the full sided version of one activity and written/verbal analysis of performance in the form of a piece of coursework.

This element is internally assessed and externally moderated. (30% A Level)

Paper 1: A two-hour written exam paper (35% of A Level).

Paper 2: A two-hour written exam paper (35% A Level)

Practical performance in physical activity and sport

Students assessed as a performer or coach in the full sided version of one activity and written/verbal analysis of performance in the form of a piece of coursework.

This element is internally assessed and externally moderated. (30% A Level)

This course can help students move on to a wide range of higher education courses including Sports and Exercise Science, Sports Management, Physiotherapy, Primary and Secondary education, Sport Business Management, Psychology and Nursing. There is an increase in students looking at higher level apprenticeships as Sports Development Officers, Gym Instructors, fitness coaches and private health care.