Physical Education

Topics & Skills

• Football: Fundamental skills like dribbling, passing, shooting, and teamwork.

• Basketball: Basic techniques such as dribbling, passing, shooting, and defensive strategies.

• Handball: Focus on passing, shooting, and movement on the court.

• Netball: Introduction to passing, shooting, and the rules governing footwork and positions.

• Fitness: Activities designed to improve cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, and overall fitness.

• Athletics: Track and field events, emphasizing running, jumping, and throwing techniques.

• Table Tennis: Basic rules, strokes (forehand, backhand), and developing hand-eye coordination.

• Badminton: Serving, basic shots, and court positioning.

• Rugby: Introduction to passing, tackling (in a safe environment), and teamwork.

• Gaelic Football: Combination of skills from soccer and rugby, with a focus on kicking, passing, and catching.

• Volleyball: Fundamentals such as serving, passing, setting, and teamwork.

• Pickleball: A blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, focusing on racket control, accuracy, and positioning.

Assessment

PE is assessed through three key areas:

• Practical performance, where students demonstrate skill development and game understanding
• Social development, focusing on teamwork, communication, and leadership
• Attitude to learning, which includes effort, participation, and a positive approach to improving fitness and skills.

Topics

The Cambridge Nationals Sport Studies course comprises four units, each focusing on different aspects of sport and physical activity:

Contemporary Issues in Sport (Unit R184)

Explores current topics affecting the world of sports, including ethics, funding, and the role of technology.

Performance and Leadership in Sports Activities (Unit R185)

Develops skills in both participating in and leading sports activities, emphasising performance improvement and leadership qualities.

Sport and the Media (Unit R186)

Examines the relationship between sports and various media outlets, understanding how sports are represented and the impact of media on public perception.

Increasing Awareness of Outdoor and Adventurous Activities (Unit R187)

Focuses on outdoor and adventurous activities, promoting understanding of their benefits and the skills required to participate safely.
These units provide a comprehensive understanding of the sports industry, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Skills

The Cambridge Nationals Sport Studies course equips students with a diverse set of skills essential for the sports industry and beyond:

- Practical Performance: Enhancing abilities in both individual and team sports, focusing on techniques, tactics, and strategies. 

- Leadership and Coaching: Developing skills to effectively lead and instruct others in sports settings. 

- Officiating: Understanding and applying the rules to officiate sporting activities competently. 

- Contemporary Issues Analysis: Exploring current topics in sports, such as ethics, funding, and the impact of technology. 

- Media Literacy: Examining the relationship between sports and media, including representation and public perception. 

- Outdoor and Adventurous Activities: Gaining awareness and skills related to outdoor sports, emphasising safety and benefits. 

- Analytical Skills: Evaluating performance, understanding sports development, and applying practice methods for improvement. 

- Communication and Teamwork: Enhancing interpersonal skills through collaborative activities and leadership roles. 

- Critical Thinking: Addressing challenges in sports contexts, including problem-solving and decision-making. 

- Understanding of Sports Development: Learning about the pathways and structures that support sports participation and progression. 

These competencies prepare students for further education and careers in sports, leisure, and related fields. 

Assessment

The Cambridge Nationals Sport Studies assessment consists of a combination of externally assessed exams and internally assessed coursework. Here is an overview:

Assessment Components

Unit R184: Contemporary Issues in Sport  
- Assessment Type: Written exam (externally assessed).  
- Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes.  
- Marks: 70.  
- Content: Focuses on current issues in sport, such as ethics, funding, technology, and participation.  
- Weighting: 40% of the qualification.  

Unit R185: Performance and Leadership in Sports Activities  
- Assessment Type: Coursework (internally assessed and externally moderated).  
- Marks: 80.  
- Content:  
  - Practical performance in an individual and a team sport.  
  - Development of leadership skills through planning and leading a sports activity.  
  - Evaluation of performance and leadership effectiveness.  
- Weighting: 40% of the qualification.  

Optional Units (Choose One)  
1. Unit R186: Sport and the Media  
   - Assessment Type: Coursework (internally assessed and externally moderated).  
   - Marks: 40.  
   - Content: Explores the relationship between sport and media, including coverage, representation, and the influence of media on public perceptions of sport.

2. Unit R187: Increasing Awareness of Outdoor and Adventurous Activities  
   - Assessment Type: Coursework (internally assessed and externally moderated).  
   - Marks: 40.  
   - Content: Focuses on planning, participating in, and evaluating outdoor and adventurous activities.  

- Weighting (Optional Unit): 20% of the qualification.  

At King’s Liverpool, we believe in offering a wide range of extra-curricular activities to support students' physical development, teamwork, and enjoyment of sport. Our diverse program encourages participation, skill development, and the pursuit of excellence in various sports.

Here are some of the exciting extra-curricular options available:

• Football: Open to all skill levels, our football program focuses on developing technique, tactical awareness, and teamwork. Students have opportunities to represent the school in local competitions and tournaments.
• Basketball: For those who enjoy fast-paced, dynamic sports, basketball sessions are a great way to improve dribbling, shooting, and defensive skills. Our basketball teams regularly compete against other schools.
• Table Tennis: This indoor activity offers students a chance to sharpen their reflexes, hand-eye coordination, and strategy in a fun, inclusive environment. Whether beginner or advanced, all are welcome.
• Handball: A growing sport in the UK, handball allows students to develop their throwing, catching, and movement skills. Our sessions are both fun and competitive, with opportunities to play against other schools.
• Netball: With a focus on teamwork and precision, our netball club helps students improve their passing, shooting, and tactical play. Teams compete in inter-school matches and local leagues.
• Cricket: For students who enjoy strategy and technique, cricket offers opportunities to develop batting, bowling, and fielding skills. We participate in summer tournaments and friendly matches.
• Athletics: Our athletics club allows students to train and compete in a variety of track and field events, including sprinting, long-distance running, jumping, and throwing. Students can take part in competitions at different levels, from school events to regional meets.

These activities are a fantastic way for students to stay active, learn new skills, and represent the school in competitions. We encourage all students to get involved, regardless of their experience or ability.

Physical Education Teacher

Sports Coach

Sports Development Officer

Personal Trainer

Fitness Instructor

Physiotherapist

Sports Psychologist

Sports Scientist

Strength and Conditioning Coach

Sports Nutritionist

Homework

Revision

Cambridge National Sports Studies Revision Resources

1. OCR Sports Studies Resource Hub
   OCR provides key materials including past papers, examiners’ reports, and specifications for Cambridge National Sports Studies.
   Visit OCR Resource Hub

2. Cambridge Nationals in Sports Studies Revision Guide
   CGP publishes a revision guide specifically designed for this qualification, covering all units in an easy-to-understand format.

3. TeachPE (Sports Studies)
   A range of videos, quizzes, and revision notes designed to help with both theory and practical elements of the Sports Studies course.
   Visit TeachPE

4. Seneca Learning (Cambridge Nationals)
   Offers tailored content specifically for Cambridge National in Sports Studies, including interactive quizzes and lessons.
   Visit Seneca Learning

5. Unit R184: Contemporary Issues in Sport – Key Revision Points
   Create summary notes for topics like barriers to participation, role of sport in promoting values, and major sporting events.

6. GCSEPod
   A video-based learning platform that also covers topics from Cambridge Nationals, with focused modules on leadership, practical performance, and contemporary issues in sport.
   Visit GCSEPod

These resources provide a wide range of revision materials to support your study of GCSE PE and Cambridge National Sports Studies, helping to reinforce learning and prepare for assessment.

Books on Physical Education and Sports Science

1. "Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain" by John J. Ratey

   • Explores the impact of physical activity on mental health, learning, and brain development.

2. "The Sports Gene: Inside the Science of Extraordinary Athletic Performance" by David Epstein

   • Investigates how genetics and environment influence athletic ability.

3. "How We Learn to Move: A Revolution in the Way We Coach & Practice Sports Skills" by Rob Gray

   • Focuses on skill acquisition and effective practice techniques in sports.

4. "Training for Young Athletes" by Tudor Bompa and Michael Carrera

   • Comprehensive guide to training and physical development for young athletes.

5. "Every Body Matters: Strengthening Your Body to Strengthen Your Soul" by Gary Thomas

   • Combines physical fitness with emotional and spiritual well-being.

Books on Coaching and Leadership

6. "Wooden: A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections On and Off the Court" by John Wooden

   • Life lessons and leadership insights from one of the most renowned basketball coaches.

7. "The Coach's Guide to Teaching" by Doug Lemov

   • A practical guide to effective coaching and teaching methods for PE and sports.

8. "Conscious Coaching: The Art and Science of Building Buy-In" by Brett Bartholomew

   • Explores relationship-driven coaching strategies for athletic development.

9. "Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About the Business of Life" by James Kerr

   • Lessons on teamwork, leadership, and culture from New Zealand's rugby team.

10. "Coaching Youth Sports" by American Sport Education Program (ASEP)

    • A practical resource for understanding the principles of coaching youth athletes.

Books on Anatomy, Physiology, and Nutrition

11. "The Anatomy Coloring Book" by Wynn Kapit and Lawrence M. Elson

    • Engaging and interactive way to learn anatomy essential for understanding physical performance.

12. "Strength Training Anatomy" by Frédéric Delavier

    • Visual guide to strength training exercises and the muscles involved.

13. "Eat, Move, Sleep: How Small Choices Lead to Big Changes" by Tom Rath

    • Holistic approach to fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle changes.

14. "Good to Go: What the Athlete in All of Us Can Learn from the Strange Science of Recovery" by Christie Aschwanden

    • Examines recovery techniques and their role in athletic performance.

15. "Complete Guide to Sports Nutrition" by Anita Bean

    • Practical advice on nutrition for athletes and those interested in sports science.

Inspirational Biographies and Stories

16. "Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen" by Christopher McDougall

    • Inspirational story exploring the art of running and endurance.

17. "Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike" by Phil Knight

    • Insightful memoir on the creation of Nike and the role of sports in business and life.

18. "Open: An Autobiography" by Andre Agassi

    • A raw and honest memoir from one of the greatest tennis players.

19. "Finding My Shine" by Nastia Liukin

    • Olympic gymnast's journey, focusing on hard work and perseverance.

20. "Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable" by Tim S. Grover

    • Insights from a coach to elite athletes on achieving excellence in sports and life.

This list provides a mix of theoretical knowledge, practical insights, and inspirational stories to spark interest and deepen understanding in physical education and sports.