A Level in Physical Education

General entry requirements:

To study this A Level, you’ll need a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5 or above across your top six subjects with at least a grade 5 or above in Maths and English Language or Literature.

Please note: your GPA average can include English and Maths.


Subject-specific entry requirements:

To study Physical Education, you’ll need a grade 5 or above in a single Science subject or 5 and 5 or above in Combined Science, and a grade 5 in at least one other written subject (e.g. English Literature, History, Geography, Drama and Theatre, Business, Religious Studies etc).

There will be two external examinations taken at the end of the second year of study with a mix of short and long answer questions.

There will also be a non-examined sports practical assessment which involves direct observation of practical competency.

As a STEM subject, Sport and Physical Education A Level demonstrates strong applied, scientific and academic capability and is an excellent base for degrees in sport science, physical education and strength and conditioning degrees.

Employers who typically recruit graduates for sports-related jobs include Sports Development, Leisure management and Fitness after completing extra qualifications.

Many of our A Level learners progressed into university. Sophie studied A Levels in Sociology, Psychology and Criminology and progressed to Canterbury Christ Church University to study Social Science. She commented: “I really enjoyed the flexibility of A Levels at College. I’d give my College experience a 10 out of 10. I think it’s so inclusive and supportive.”

There are no fees for this course if you are under 18.

If you are aged 19 or above, please contact us for more information about fees and funding.

Throughout the year, you will take part in regular trips, allowing you to see the application of Sports and Physical Education in various industries firsthand.

Previous trips have included visits to the Sports Laboratory at Canterbury Christ Church University and Kent Cricket Ground to watch coaching and listen to guest speakers talk about strength and conditioning. You will also visit UKC to visit their sports lab and sports area. You will visit hear from academics and experts from the industry and related fields of study.

You will also have various opportunities to visit universities and attend progression and career fairs hosted by the College.

Choosing EKC Canterbury College for sixth form also means you will be part of the thriving Students’ Union. The Students’ Union (SU) is a group of students dedicated to representing your voice, organising events, and running campaigns to enhance College life. They are also responsible for the College’s clubs and societies, and organise a wide range of exciting trips and events.

Students will benefit from the College Fitness Centre, the Sports Hall, as well as visits to numerous high-quality local and regional sports facilities.


What subjects are commonly studied with Physical Education?

Physical Education works well alongside science-based A Levels such as Biology and Psychology, helping you to understand the body, performance and the mental aspects of sport.

Combining Physical Education with subjects like Business or Media Studies can support pathways into careers within the sports industry, including sports management, coaching, marketing or journalism.

It is also an excellent subject to study alongside Sociology as you can explore the wider impact of sport on society, wellbeing and participation, and apply these ideas to your practical and theoretical work.