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Physical Education GCSE

What will I study?

GCSE Physical Education enables pupils to develop knowledge and practical skills in a range of physical activities and gain an understanding of the theoretical aspects that underpin sport.

Pupils will examine the effects of exercise and how training can improve performance, identify ways to develop and maintain a healthy active lifestyle and appreciate the benefits of promoting ‘Sport for All’. Below are the main topics covered:

Benefits of a healthy active lifestyle
Influences of a healthy active lifestyle
Components of fitness
Principles of training
Training methods
Your personal health and wellbeing (diet, work, rest)

Physical activity and your healthy mind and body (somatotypes, weight, drugs)
Cardiovascular system
Respiratory system
Skeletal system
Muscular system
Use of data with a range of different topics

The course is made up for three different components; Practical (30%) of which (10%) coursework, Theory (70%).

How Will I Study This Subject?

Theory (Units 1 & 2) are both assessed through a final exam completed in May following the completion of the course. Preparation is key and work throughout the three years will enable pupils to be confident that they have the knowledge to succeed in the exam. Marks are awarded in Practical (Unit 3) for performance, coaching or refereeing/umpiring, coaching badges and refereeing qualifications are key if pupils follow either of those pathways. The majority of pupils choose to follow the performance pathway which requires pupils to be competent athletes in four different sporting activities.

Analysis of Performance (Unit 4) allows pupils to independently research and use key skills to produce coursework under controlled conditions. A time limit applies and pupils produce coursework, which demonstrates their knowledge and understanding of the following:

Rules, regulations and terminology
Observe and analyse performance
Evaluate performance
Plan strategies, tactics and practices
Plan a Personal Exercise Programme

How Will I Earn Marks For My Final Grade?

Practical marks and the Analysis of Performance are externally assessed by an examiner during a practical assessment held in March/April of their final year.

How Will This Subject Help Me In The Future?

Completing GCSE Physical Education will enable pupils to continue in higher
education at both A level or BTEC level 3.

GCSE is the first step towards a career in sport, such as; teaching, coaching, officiating, the fitness industry or marketing and management. The GCSE is also seen in good light by the armed forces, police force and many other career pathways.

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