Physical Education / Sports Studies
St Edward's School - Oxfordshire
01865319323
Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 7NN
Course summary

This Standard and Higher Level course incorporates the traditional disciplines of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, psychology and nutrition, which are studied in the context of sport, exercise and health. The crucial element throughout is the ability to cover a wide range of topics from an applied perspective. The course includes a variety of practical experiments where pupils develop their scientific investigation skills. The anatomy topics examine the structure of the neuromuscular, respiratory, cardiovascular and nervous systems and how the incredible human structure adapts so effectively in response to training. Physiology topics delve into the biochemistry of sporting performance through the study of energy systems, nutrition, ergogenic aids and kinetic function. For those interested in physics there is the opportunity for field-testing in the biomechanical units of the course: for example aiming to determine the relationship between angular displacement of the golf club and the distance travelled by the ball. Psychology of sport hypothesises the relationship between personality, motivation and performance, investigates evaluation apprehension and interestingly, how we attribute our success and failings in sport. A short mathematics topic ensures pupils have the skills to effectively analyse the relevance of their data collected during practical work. The assessment does not test physical performance, but this course will suit pupils who like to apply science to sport and will complement a wide variety of other subjects. Core topics include: the skeletal system, the muscular system, cardiac function, pulmonary function, anaerobic and aerobic energy systems, neuromuscular function, kinesiology, biomechanics, genetics, immunity, training principles, information processing, principles of skill learning, psychology of sport and nutrition.

Entry requirements

You should be predicted and expect to achieve at least a grade 7 at GCSE in any subjects you intend to study at IB Higher Level. That raises to an 8 for the three traditional sciences and a 9 is required for Higher Level Maths. If you are concerned that you may not be able to achieve the required grade, you should consult with the relevant Head of Department as to your acceptance on to a Sixth Form course. Under such circumstances the Head of Department will reflect upon prior attitude to learning and contribution to a positive classroom environment. In the case of “new” subjects in the Sixth Form, we ask for at least a 7 in a related GCSE subject. For Theatre and Art History, this is English. For Philosophy and Global Politics this is English or History and for Economics, pupils require a grade 7 at GCSE in Maths and English.

How you'll be assessed

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth East
Local AuthorityOxfordshire
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeCo-Educational
ISI Report
Boarding FeeUnknown
Sixth Form FeeUnknown
AddressWoodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 7NN