Physical Education / Sports Studies

Course summary

Advanced-level Physical Education would suit a student who has a genuine interest in sports and who is committed to attaining high standards in their work. Students will study the following topics: ◦ Applied anatomy and physiology - develop knowledge and understanding of the changes within the body systems before exercise, during the exercise of differing intensities, and recovery. ◦ Skill acquisition - how skill is acquired and the impact of psychological factors on performance. Knowledge and understanding of the principles required to optimize learning of new and the development of existing skills. ◦ Sport and society - develop knowledge and understanding of the interaction between and the evolution of, sport and society. ◦ Exercise physiology – understand the adaptations to the body systems through training or lifestyle and how these changes affect the efficiency of those systems. ◦ Biomechanical movement - develop knowledge and understanding of motion and forces and their relevance to performance in physical activity and sport. ◦ Sport psychology - develop knowledge and understanding of the role of sport psychology in optimizing performance in physical activity and sport ◦ Role of technology in sport - develop knowledge and understanding of the technological developments in physical activity and sport. This course is recognized by all universities as an academic advanced level qualification. Students in previous years have used this course to lead to careers in PE. Areas such as teaching, physiotherapy, sports coaching, sports psychology, sports therapy, and personal trainer have all been pursued. Other students have used it as an additional qualification to demonstrate to universities their interest and enthusiasm beyond the boundaries of traditional subjects such as psychology and economics.