AQA A-Level Physical Education – 7582
Course Leader:
Until January 2027: Stephen Fraher – stephenfraher@kba.uk
From January 2027: Joshua Crayford – Joshuacrayford@kba.uk
WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?
Ideally have studied GCSE PE and achieved a level 6 or higher, or OCR and achieved a Merit or higher.
Students should have an interest in sport and physical activity and be keen to develop their understanding of both the theoretical and practical elements of Physical Education. The course provides breadth and depth of study, exploring the science, psychology and sociology behind sporting performance.
WHAT WILL I DO?
A-Level Physical Education is an engaging course that combines academic study with practical performance. You will explore how the body works during exercise, how sporting skills are developed and how psychological, social and technological factors influence participation and performance.
The course develops your understanding of the relationship between theory and practice, allowing you to apply your knowledge to real sporting situations.
You will also develop your practical performance in one chosen activity, either as a performer or coach, alongside the ability to analyse and evaluate performance.
COURSE CONTENT AND COMPONENTS
The course is divided into theoretical and practical elements.
Theoretical Content – 70%
You will study a range of topics exploring the scientific, psychological and sociological aspects of sport and physical activity.
Topics include:
- Applied Anatomy and Physiology
- Skill Acquisition
- Sport and Society
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanical Movement
- Sports Psychology
- The Role of Technology in Physical Activity and Sport
You will develop an understanding of how the body responds to exercise, how skills are learned and performed, and how social and technological developments influence sport.
Practical Content – 30%
Students are assessed as either a performer or coach in the full-sided version of one activity.
This is accompanied by a written or verbal analysis and evaluation of performance. You will use your theoretical knowledge to identify strengths and weaknesses and consider how performance can be improved.
ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK
A-Level Physical Education is assessed through two written examinations and a practical Non-Exam Assessment (NEA).
Paper 1: Factors Affecting Participation in Physical Activity and Sport
- Written examination
- 2 hours
- 35% of the final A-Level grade
Paper 2: Factors Affecting Optimal Performance in Physical Activity and Sport
- Written examination
- 2 hours
- 35% of the final A-Level grade
Non-Exam Assessment: Practical Performance in Physical Activity and Sport
- Practical assessment as a performer or coach in one activity
- Written or verbal performance analysis and evaluation
- 30% of the final A-Level grade
Students develop their theoretical understanding, practical skills and ability to analyse and evaluate sporting performance throughout the course.
PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?
A-Level Physical Education provides an excellent foundation for further study and careers in sport, exercise, health and physical activity.
Students may progress to university courses and careers in areas such as:
- Sports Science
- Sport and Exercise Science
- Physical Education and Sports Coaching
- Sports Development
- Physiotherapy and Sports Rehabilitation
- Sports Management
- Fitness and Personal Training
- Exercise and Health
The course also develops valuable transferable skills, including communication, teamwork, leadership, critical thinking and problem-solving, which are valued across a wide range of university courses and careers.