A-Level Physical Education (AQA 7582)
Course Overview
If you are interested in sport but want to delve deeper into the scientific and sociological aspects of sport, then this course offers you that opportunity.
The course focuses on physiological and psychological factors, and socio-cultural, historical and biomechanical effects, and seeks to establish how much impact they have on improving and then optimising sports performance.
Physical education combines well with subjects such as biology, English literature, history and physics. Sports studies/ Sports science can be studied at undergraduate, master’s degree and PhD level. Many jobs in the sport and leisure industry are now looking at sports studies as an essential background for future development. Physical education is also an advantage when looking into jobs such as physiotherapy and sports journalism.
You will study:
- applied anatomy
- physiology
- skill acquisition
- sport and society.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my two years in A-level PE. I have learnt how the body functions in sport and as a result improved as a performer.”
St Ivo Student
Key Information
Course Code: 7582
Minimum Entry Requirements
- A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English and mathematics
- Grade 6+/ 6+ in GCSE combined science or any two grade 6+ in triple science
- If physical education studied at GCSE grade 5+
Exam Board: AQA
Assessment
- 70% of the course is examined
- 15% is assessed in either practical performance or coaching
- 15% is written coursework.
How to apply
Choosing your post-16 options is an important decision, and St Ivo Academy Sixth Form is here to guide you. Applications are welcome from students in St Ives and beyond via the MyChoice16 platform.
Step-by-step application process
- Log in to your MyChoice16 account.
- Select ‘My Applications’. To start a new application, click ‘Start a new Application’; to continue an existing one, click ‘Continue’ next to your application.
- Complete all sections of your Profile Template if this is your first application. For additional applications, only ‘Course Choices’ needs to be completed.
- Qualifications will be uploaded by the school—this section can be skipped. Your form tutor will add a reference.
- Complete any remaining fields or checkboxes. Click ‘Send Application’ to submit.
- Your application status will update (eg. Sent, Schools Hold). The school will review your application to ensure it meets the requirements, and you may be asked to discuss it with a teacher.
- Monitor your application regularly and respond promptly to any notifications.
- All applicants will be invited to an interview before a provisional offer is made.
After St Ivo
Sport & Fitness Careers
- Personal Trainer / Fitness Instructor
- Sports Coach / Strength & Conditioning Coach
- Professional Athlete
- Exercise Physiologist
Healthcare & Therapy
- Physiotherapist / Sports Therapist
- Occupational Therapist (with further study)
- Dietitian / Nutritionist
- Sports Scientist
Education & Teaching
- PE Teacher / Lecturer
- Youth & Community Sports Worker
- Outdoor Education Instructor
Other Related Careers
- Leisure Centre or Gym Manager
- Event / Sports Management
- Health Promotion / Public Health Roles
Contact the subject lead
Paul Cook – Paul.Cook@astreastivo.org