Sport Studies

Many students enjoy and wish to study PE at GCSE level, but a lack of regular high-level participation; or lower confidence with terminal examinations can be a barrier to Year 11 outcomes for some. Our Sports studies course allows all students to learn about, and participate in sport and physical activity without the restrictive practical performance assessment or terminal examinations required in GCSE PE.

The Cambridge National in Sport Studies takes a more sector-based focus, whilst also encompassing some core sport/Physical Education themes. Students have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge about different types of sport and physical activity, skills development and sports leadership to their own practical performance. They will learn about contemporary issues in sport such as funding, participation, ethics and role models, and sport and the media. Students will develop an appreciation of the importance of sport locally and nationally, different ways of being involved in sport and of how this shapes the sports industry.

This qualification is equivalent to a GCSE and is recognised by further education institutions as such. Level 3 study progression can occur via A Level Physical Education or Level 3 Cambridge Technical at the Streetly Academy.

How will I be assessed? 

The Cambridge National has predominantly coursework based assessment, with only 1 externally assessed examination with the opportunity for re take during the 2 year course. This offers students the ability to improve work prior to assessment and not be judged solely on one examination performance at the end of the course like in GCSE PE. 

The course does not however assess upon a students practical sporting ability, and so students with an average practical ability are not disadvantaged in one component of the course unlike GCSE PE which is more suitable to higher practical ability students.

Units covered:

• Contemporary issues in sport - Written paper - 70 marks. 1hr 15minutes

  • • Barriers and solutions to participation levels in sport. Growth of emerging sports. Importance of hosting major events. Role of National Governing Bodies.

• Performance and Leadership in sports activities - School assessed task, externally moderated.

  • • Developing the use of skills, tactics as a team or individual performer. Officiating activities. Applying practice methods to support performance improvements.

    • Plan, deliver and evaluate sports activity sessions.

• Developing knowledge and skills in outdoor activities - School assessed task, externally moderated.

  • • Understanding the value of outdoor activities, planning outdoor activities.

FAQ's

Will I still do practical PE lessons during this course?

Yes, two of the units have extensive practical sections. You will study Performance and leadership in Sports activities. You will likely do more practical doing Sport Studies than GCSE PE!

What will the coursework tasks be?

See the example tasks below. They can be through presentations, audio interview recordings, leading practical sessions, assessment of practical performance in team and individual activities etc.

Will group size affect my PE/Sport option choice?

We do our very best to ensure that all students study the course that best suits their ability and learning needs. We typically have 2 groups of students studying Sport studies and 1 studying GCSE PE although this will depend on the students opting. 

Who will be our teacher?

This changes year on year and shouldn't affect your decision anyway. All of the PE department staff have lots of experience teaching the courses on offer.

If you are unsure if OCR Cambridge National Sports Studies is the right option for you, please speak to your PE teacher or myself.

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Mr P Mace (Head of PE)