GCSE Physical Education
The OCR GCSE (9–1) in Physical Education (J587) is a comprehensive course balancing theoretical knowledge (60%) with practical performance (40%). It covers applied anatomy, physiology, psychology, and socio-cultural factors in sport. Students are assessed on three practical activities and a performance analysis, preparing them for sports science or further studies.
Course Structure & Content:
- Component 01: Physical Factors Affecting Performance (36% - Exam): Focusses on applied anatomy, physiology, movement analysis, and physical training (e.g., cardiovascular system, levers, energy systems).
- Component 02: Socio-Cultural Issues and Sports Psychology (24% - Exam): Covers psychology of sport, socio-cultural influences (media, sponsorship), commercialisation, and ethical/social issues.
- Component 04: Practical Performance (Non-Exam Assessment - 30%): Assessed in three activities: one team, one individual, and a third from either list, focusing on skills, tactics, and consistency.
- Component 05: Analysis and Evaluation of Performance (AEP) (Non-Exam Assessment - 10%): A written task where students analyse their own or a peer's performance to produce an action plan for improvement
NCFE Level 1/2 Technical Award in Health and Fitness
The NCFE Level 1/2 Technical Award in Health and Fitness (603/7007/5) is a vocational qualification designed for learners (primarily aged 14–16 in schools) who want to understand the health and fitness sector. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical, project-based learning to prepare students for further study or careers in the fitness industry.
Key Content Areas (Mandatory Units)
The qualification covers 8 core content areas:
- Body Systems: Structure and function of the musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory systems.
- Effects of Exercise: Understanding both short- and long-term effects of physical activity on the body.
- Health & Fitness Components: Key components of fitness (e.g., endurance, strength).
- Principles of Training: Understanding training principles (e.g., FITT).
- Fitness Testing: How to test and interpret results for fitness components.
- Lifestyle Impact: The effect of diet, exercise, and lifestyle on health and fitness.
- Goal Setting: Applying health analysis and setting specific, measurable goals.
- Programming: Creating and designing safe, tailored fitness programmes.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Sport
The BTEC National Extended Certificate in Sport is an Applied General qualification for post-16 learners who want to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher education and ultimately to employment in the sports sector.
The qualification is equivalent to one A Level, and it has been designed as a full two-year programme when studied alongside a further Level 3 qualification.
Learners will study three mandatory units:
• Unit 1: Anatomy and Physiology
• Unit 2: Fitness Training and Programming for Health, Sport and Well-being
• Unit 3: Professional Development in the Sports Industry.
Learners will also study one optional unit from a range which has been designed to support choices in progression to sport courses in higher education, and to link with relevant occupational areas.