Page 51 - Sixth Form Courses 2026-2028

A LEVEL
PHYSICAL EDUCATION

OVERVIEW Physical performance, by definition, involves ‘movement’ and this course is
concerned with sport science developments that lead towards the ‘optimal
athletic performance’. Physical Education is an increasingly diverse subject. The
course offers an excellent insight into all the scientific aspects of sporting
performance; whether you are looking to enhance your understanding of exercise
physiology and your performance on the sports field, improve your mental
approach to performance through sport psychology, or simply learn more about
the contemporary issues in sport and society, this course will be of interest to you
and provides an excellent foundation if you wish to study a sports related degree
at university.

APPROACH This is a heavily scientific course. Students will study a variety of topics to improve
their own individual performance, analysis and evaluative skills in their chosen
sporting activity. The course is 70% examined, with a 15% practical assessment
and a 15% oral analysis of performance.

COURSE OUTLINE In this A level you will study three theory components and be assessed in one
practical component.
Component 1: Physiological Factors Affecting Performance. A two hour written
paper focusing on Applied Anatomy and Physiology, Exercise Physiology and
Biomechanics (30% of total A level).
Component 2: Psychological Factors Affecting Performance. A one hour written
paper focusing on Skill Acquisition and Sport Psychology (20% of total A level).
Component 3: Socio-Cultural Issues in Physical Activity and Sport. A one hour
written paper focusing on Sport and Society and Contemporary Issues in Physical
Activity and Sport (20% of total A level).
Component 4: Practical Performance and Evaluation. Analysis and evaluation of
physical activity as a performer or coach in the students’ chosen sport. Students
are assessed in one sport in a fully competitive situation and carry out an oral
evaluation and plan for improving performance (EA-PI) (30% of total A level).
FURTHER INFORMATION Students with a genuine interest in studying sport will find the course a wonderful
platform from which to launch a career in the world of sports therapy, teaching,
coaching, sports management, physiotherapy, sports psychology, sports
technology and not least, sports science.
Speak to any member of the Physical Education Department to confirm whether
Physical Education is the right choice for you. They will be as passionate as you to
find the best subject to develop your talents.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Essential: Grade 4 (C) in GCSE English, Grade 5 (C+) in GCSE Science (any) or Level
2 BTEC Science., Grade 5 (C+) in GCSE Physical Education

Desirable: Grade 6 (B) in GCSE Physical Education (with at least grade 4 (C) in the
Theory Paper) Grade 6 (B) in GCSE Science (any).

EXAM BOARD AND H555
SPECIFICATION www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/physical-education-h155-h555-
from-2016/
CONTACT Head of Physical Education
Miss V Stancer
Stancer.v@millfieldschool.com

49 MILLFIELD SIXTH FORM 2026-2028