GCSE PE

All learners will have the option of choosing GCSE Physical Education (Edexcel syllabus) in addition to their Core PE programme in Year 9. It is our intention to offer gender specific routes to achieving this qualification to ensure that personalisation of learning is integral to delivery. This will be dependent upon student uptake of the course. In order for those that choose to study the subject to achieve the higher grades on the course, practical ability, leadership skills and strong theoretical understanding will need to be demonstrated. This will be complimented by high levels of proficiency in English and Science. The specification for the course is as follows:

• 36% Written (1 hour 45 minutes) Exam - Fitness & Body Systems
• 24% Written (1 hour 15 minutes) Exam - Health & Performance
• 30% Internally assessed & Externally moderated Practical Performance in 3 physical activities (one team, one individual, plus one other)
• 10% Internally assessed & Externally moderated Coursework - Physical Exercise Programme

The practical component will involve the learners being assessed in a number of activities designed specifically to cater for the needs, abilities and interests of the cohort in line with syllabus requirements. 

Practical activity example:
Football, Basketball, Table Tennis, Badminton, Netball, Rugby, Athletics, Trampolining, Gaelic Football

Additional activities will be offered through the extra-curricular programme, some of which will be facilitated off-site. All learners who opt for the subject will be strongly encouraged to attend regular extra-curricular clubs to improve their results. Learners with particular strengths in sporting areas that are not on offer through the taught programme will have the opportunity to be assessed in these activities, subject to syllabus limitations.

60% of the mark is awarded through two externally set, and assessed, examinations (1 hour 45 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes). These exams will include multiple-choice, short-answer, and longer-answer questions requiring extended writing. The theoretical component of the course should not be underestimated and covers the following aspects in great depth:

Anatomy & Physiology, Movement Analysis, Physical Training, Health, Fitness & Well-being, Sport Psychology, Socio-cultural influences, use of Data, Fitness Training Methods and Principles of Training.

The learners will have five lessons per cycle. For the duration of the course three theory lessons and two practical lessons will be our guide, however, staff will alter this ratio as and when necessary to ensure particular aspects are covered sufficiently.