A Level Physical Education

The scientific study of exercise, health and sport.

The scientific study of exercise, health and sport is big business, from the riches of professional sports to the equally important personal fitness sector. The impact of sport on both our individual lives and the global economy cannot be overstated.

About the Course

Are you interested in anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, sports psychology, diet and nutrition, skill acquisition and sports commercialisation?

A level PE will provide you with a fantastic insight into the amazing world of sports performance. Whether you aspire to work within the sport sector or are looking for a varied, challenging and fun third subject, A level PE represents the first step towards your future career.

Our students go on to study sport-related courses at a number of the UK’s leading universities.

Opportunities unique to this course

The range of topics covered at A Level PE is a huge strength of the course. Students will study Anatomy & Physiology, Exercise Physiology, Sport Psychology, Skill Acquisition and History of Sport. Additionally, the first-class resources and support on offer to PE students enable all students to progress and exceed their potential.

Year 12

Scientific Principles

• Applied anatomy and exercise physiology (musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory, neuromuscular, energy systems, diet & nutrition and training principles).
• Biomechanics (motion and forces applied to physical activity).

Psychological & Social Principles

• Sport psychology (factors affecting performance - personality, arousal, anxiety, aggression, motivation and dynamics of group processes).
• Skill acquisition (theories of learning & performance that underpin coaching principles).
• Sport and society (impact of ethics on sport including deviance in sport, the growing influence of the commercialisation of sport and the relationship of sport & the media).

Practical Performance

• Assessed as a performer or coach in one sport. You do not need to be a high-level performer to study A level PE.

• Technology underpins the whole course whether enhancing, analysing or monitoring performance (with access to university science labs and some of the latest equipment).

70% examination (two written papers)

You need to be qualified by both the relevant Admissions Score AND the predicted GCSE grade for each A level you apply for.

Please go to the College website to find the most up-to-date entry requirements for each A level that we offer: https://www.hillsroad.ac.uk/study-with-us/a-level-subjects

You can also visit www.hillsroad.ac.uk/apply to find out more about making your application.

Employers greatly value the range of skills that ‘Sport’ graduates bring to the workplace. However, many do choose a career in sport, indeed, a number of you will be taught and coached by former Hills Road students.