GCSE Physical Education

Physical Education

Physical Education (PE) as a GCSE comprises of both theory and practical aspects. The aim of the course is to provide students with an improved knowledge and understanding of how to effectively live an active and healthy lifestyle, while also developing and enhancing their physical performance. Students will be encouraged to develop an improved understanding and appreciation of their own and others’ cultures in relation to PE.

It is an ideal subject to accompany the study of scientific subjects, since the learning theory covers key areas of human physiological systems (e.g. anatomy and energy systems).

Students will be assessed both internally and externally. There are two written units which will be taken as part of the formal examination period with both lasting 1 hour, with two further units made up of practical elements being assessed internally by the tutor.

PE is an excellent subject to aspire to take right through to university level, where “Sport science” is now a highly regarded degree. Universities such as Bath and Loughborough are renowned for high levels of sporting excellence, and provide degrees tailored to career opportunities in a range of fields.

Course Content

Component 1: Fitness & Body Systems

Written Exam: 1hr 30 mins 36% of GCSE 80 Marks

• Topic 1: Applied anatomy and physiology
• Topic 2: Movement analysis
• Topic 3: Physical training
• Topic 4: Use of data

Component 2: Health & Performance

Written Exam: 1hr 15mins 24% of GCSE 60 Marks

• Topic 1: Health, fitness and wellbeing Topic 2: Sport psychology Topic 3: Socio-cultural influences Topic 4: Use of data

Component 3: Practical Performance

What’s Assessed: Skills during individual and team activities General performance skills

Non-Examined Assessment: Internally Marked & Externally Moderated 30% of GCSE 105 Marks (35 marks per activity)

Component 4: Personal Exercise Programme (PEP)

Non-Examined Assessment Internally Marked & Marked Externally Moderated 10% of GCSE 20 Marks

What’s Assessed: Aim and planning analysis Carrying out and monitoring the PEP Evaluation of the PEP

Where does it lead?

Students can progress to A Level PE and then consider sports science, physiotherapy and a wide range of other university courses.