Physical Education
A Level Physical Education and BTEC courses are increasingly technical in character. The growing sophistication of sports science has widened the career opportunities available to those studying it beyond teaching and coaching.
During the A level Physical Education course, students will study the principles of physiology, psychology, sociology and biomechanics. They will be assessed on their practical ability in sport, and their technical ability to analyse and evaluate performances
For those who prefer learning through vocationally based assignments, we offer three BTEC courses in Sport. This allows students to either study sport alongside their other passions with the Foundation Diploma (1 ½ A level equivalent) or Diploma in Sport (2 A level equivalent), as well as the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in a sport course with the Extended Diploma in Sport (3 A level equivalent).
The Academic Sports Programme is designed to allow talented athletes the opportunity to train, compete and be mentored in their chosen sport whilst still being able to access 6th form study. We currently offer the programme in football and swimming.
Departmental Courses
- A Level PE
- BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Sport
- BTEC National Diploma in Sport
- BTEC National Extended Diploma in Sport
- Academic Sport Programme
A Level Physical Education
A Level Physical Education delivers a well-rounded and full introduction to the world of PE, sport and sports science, providing a strong base from which to move on to higher education, employment or further training. The emphasis throughout the course is on the development of knowledge, application of knowledge, competence and confidence in a wide variety of skills. You will learn how Physical Education affects and contributes to society and also how to apply your knowledge from this course to any number of different practical situations or career choices.
Although not necessary to have studied the subject at GCSE, this is strongly advised as previously acquired knowledge of examination PE will underpin learning at this level. There is also an increase in the amount of scientific study, together with the inclusion of data analysis requiring mathematical skills.
The A Level Specification content is divided into three components, which you can see below. Again, each component is further sub-divided into topic areas and the detailed content associated with those topics.
Skills that will be developed
A Level PE students develop the ability to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of physical activity, and to apply this to a range of sporting contexts. Analytical and evaluative skills are developed through both written and oral responses.
Who do I contact for more information?
Mrs. N Wilkins (n.wilkins@poolehigh.poole.sch.uk)
BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Sport
The BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Sport is a two-year programme. It offers a broad basis of study for the sport sector, and combines practical sports activity alongside academic study. It is equivalent to 1 1/2 A levels and is studied for 9 lessons over 2 weeks.
You will study 7 units over the 2 years: 4 are mandatory units and 3 are an optional unit. Of the 4 mandatory units, 2 are externally assessed.
Entry Requirements:
GCSE Physical Education, or a BTEC First Award in Sport qualification.
Must have achieved English or Maths (preferably both) at a grade 4 or above. A genuine interest in sport and coaching, alongside a sound knowledge of sport.
A-Level Equivalency:
Pass: E
Merit: C
Distinction : A
Distinction Star: A*
Contact for more Information:
Mrs. J Borthwick (J.Borthwick@poolehigh.poole.sch.uk)
BTEC National Diploma in Sport
The National Diploma in Sport is a two-year programme. The course combines academic study and practical sports sessions to provide the core knowledge and study skills to progress to higher education or employment. It is equivalent to 2 A levels.
Assessment
You will study 9 units over 2 years; 3 units are externally assessed, 6 units are internally assessed (coursework).
Entry Requirements:
GCSE Physical Education, or a BTEC First Award in Sport qualification.
Must have achieved English or Maths (preferably both) at a grade 4 or above. A genuine interest in sport and coaching, alongside a sound knowledge of sport.
A-Level Equivalency:
Pass: E
Merit: C
Distinction : A
Distinction Star: A*
Contact for more Information:
Mrs. J Borthwick (J.Borthwick@poolehigh.poole.sch.uk)
BTEC National Extended Diploma in Sport
The National Extended Diploma in Sport is a two-year, full-time programme. The course combines academic study and practical sports sessions to provide the core knowledge and study skills to progress to higher education or employment. It is equivalent to 3 A levels.
Assessment
You will study 14 units over 2 years; 4 units are externally assessed and 10 units are internally assessed (coursework).
Entry Requirements:
GCSE Physical Education, or a BTEC First Award in Sport qualification.
Must have achieved English or Maths (preferably both) at a grade 4 or above. A genuine interest in sport and coaching, alongside a sound knowledge of sport.
A-Level Equivalency:
Pass: E
Merit: C
Distinction : A
Distinction Star: A*
Contact for more Information:
Mrs. J Borthwick (J.Borthwick@poolehigh.poole.sch.uk)
PE opens doors to a number of careers and life options. Sport, nutrition and health are huge topics of discussion today, and as the fight against obesity and sedentary lifestyle issues continues, the knowledge you gain from a course such as this will only grow in importance and relevance. Both A Level PE and a BTEC National in Sport will enable you to apply for higher education courses in sports science, sports management, healthcare, or exercise and health. They can also complement further study in subjects such as biology, human biology, physiotherapy physics, psychology, nutrition and sociology.
Studying A Level PE or a BTEC National in Sport can open up a range of career opportunities including: sports development, sports coaching, physiotherapy, sports journalism, personal training or becoming one of the next generation of PE teachers. The transferable skills you learn, such as decision making and independent thinking, are useful in any career path you choose to take. Students considering Sports Science degrees should combine PE with at least one science subject.
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