PE - KS4

Choose a subject

Students at SJB study PE because it guides & inspires them to maintain optimum health & fitness for the rest of their lives. They will develop physical literacy & experience positive feelings around physical activity, building confidence in their bodies. 


PE develops a range of life skills including leadership, teamwork & a resilience to physical & mental challenges. For many students, physical education will be a source of great passion & can foster a curiosity in the limits of human health & performance.

Exam Board: AQA

Qualification: GCSE Physical Education (8582)

GCSE Physical Education Specification

GCSE Physical Education Curriculum Map

This course enables students to take their passion for sport to the next level. Students have the opportunity to learn how to train effectively, understand the science behind performance, and challenge themselves to achieve more.

At times, we explore theoretical content through practical work, allowing students to see concepts in action, so they can apply their learning directly, and deepen their understanding of the content.

GCSE PE is designed for students who live and breathe sport—whether through school extra curricular sport teams or at club level.

 

Paper 1 – The Human Body and Movement in Physical Activity and Sport

  • Applied anatomy and physiology (musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems)

  • Movement analysis (how the body creates movement)

  • Physical training (principles of training, components of fitness, training methods)

  • Use of data in sport (interpreting and applying performance data)

Paper 2 – Socio-Cultural Influences and Wellbeing in Physical Activity and Sport

  • Sports psychology (motivation, arousal, goal setting, mental preparation)

  • Socio-cultural influences (engagement patterns, commercialisation, the role of media, and ethics in sport)

  • Health, fitness, and well-being (diet, lifestyle choices, the impact of exercise on health)

  • Use of data (continued application in performance analysis)

Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) – Practical Performance

  • Performance in three physical activities: one team sport, one individual sport, and one additional activity of choice

  • Assessment of skills, techniques, tactics, and performance in full competitive context

  • Written coursework: Students will be assessed on their analysis and evaluation of performance to bring about improvement in one activity.

Component What's assessed Duration Weighting
Paper 1 – The Human Body & Movement in Physical Activity and Sport
  • Applied anatomy and physiology
  • Movement analysis
  • Physical training
  • Use of data
 1 hour 15 minutes 30%
Paper 2 – Socio-Cultural Influences & Wellbeing in Physical Activity and Sport
  • Sports psychology
  • Socio-cultural influences
  • Health, fitness and well-being
  • Use of data
 1 hour 15 mintues 30%
Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) - Practical performance in physical activity and sport
  • 3 sports are practicall assesed (30%).
  • Coursework - Students write an in-depth analysis of their own performance and an evaluation and action plan to improve effectiveness, linking theory to practice (10%).
 Practical and written 40%

 

Why choose GCSE PE?

PE isn't just about playing sport. Students develop a wide range of life skills that go far beyond sport. These include:

  • Teamwork – working effectively with others towards shared goals.

  • Leadership – taking responsibility, motivating others, and leading by example.

  • Resilience – learning to overcome setbacks and stay motivated under pressure.

  • Communication – expressing ideas clearly, giving feedback, and listening to others.

  • Decision-Making – analysing situations quickly and choosing the best strategy.

  • Organisation & Time Management – balancing practical training, coursework, and exams.

  • Confidence & Self-Motivation – believing in your ability and pushing yourself to achieve.

  • Problem-Solving – adapting tactics and approaches when challenges arise.

  • Critical Thinking – evaluating performance and applying knowledge to improve.

1. PE teachers use formative assessment in every lesson to check understanding, guide learning and support student progress.

2. Students complete end of unit tests made up of multiple-choice, short-answer, and extended-answer questions, designed to reflect the style of their final exam.

3. Student complete assessments using 'The Everlearner' to consolidate knowledge and track progress.

4. In practical lessons, teachers assess students by observing their technique of skills, tactics, and overall performance across a range of sports in fully competitive contexts.

 

  • A Level PE – a natural progression for students wanting to deepen their knowledge of sport, anatomy, physiology, and psychology.

  • Apprenticeships and University degrees in Sport Science, Sports Coaching, Sports Psychology, Physiotherapy, Nutrition, Exercise Science, Leisure Management, or Teaching.

Careers in:

Sport and Fitness Careers

  • Professional Athlete

  • Sports Coach

  • Personal Trainer / Fitness Instructor

  • PE Teacher

  • Outdoor Adventure Leader

Health and Science Careers

  • Physiotherapist

  • Sports Scientist

  • Exercise Physiologist

  • Sports Psychologist

  • Nutritionist / Dietitian

Sport and Leisure Industry Careers

  • Leisure Centre Manager

  • Sports Development Officer

  • Event and Facility Management

  • Community Sports Coordinator

Other Related Careers

  • Armed Forces or Police (fitness and resilience focused)

  • Rehabilitation and Occupational Therapy

  • Journalism or Media in Sport

Back