Sports Courses
The Physical Education Department at Ivybridge Community College is proud of its strong student success and the popularity of its courses.
At Key Stage 4, students can choose between GCSE PE and NCFE PE. Both focus on similar areas of sport, but GCSE PE includes both theory and practical assessment, while NCFE PE is assessed through theory only. Teachers will help students choose the course best suited to their strengths.
At Key Stage 5, students can choose from two BTEC Level 3 qualifications or A Level PE, all taught by specialist staff.
The BTEC courses are full-time qualifications, with 27 hours of teaching time across a fortnight.
A Level PE is studied alongside two other subjects. Over two years, students complete four compulsory modules and a practical assessment in one chosen sport.
Students interested in any course can use the drop-down menus below to find out more.
GCSE PE
Course Lead
Mrs Naomi Philpot
Examination Board
AQA
GCSE PE and NCFE PE cover many of the same topics, but differ in how they are assessed. Both courses include five lessons over a two-week timetable: four theory lessons and one practical lesson, which supports the theory content.
Both qualifications can lead to careers in areas such as medicine, sports science, and teaching. They also provide progression routes to Key Stage 5 courses including A Level PE, BTEC Sport, and BTEC Uniformed Protective Services.
The two main theoretical areas assessed in GCSE PE are:
- Applied Anatomy and Physiology in Physical Activity and Sport
- Socio-Cultural Influences on Sport and Physical Activity
Topics studied to support these areas include:
- Components of Fitness
- Cardio-Respiratory System
- Movement Analysis
- Health and Lifestyle
- Sports Psychology
- Skill Acquisition
Assessment for GCSE PE is split into two parts. Sixty percent of the final grade comes from two written exams, each lasting 1 hour 15 minutes. The remaining 40% is based on practical performance in three activities and coursework.
Students are ideally competing regularly in at least two sports and participating in three sports. The practical assessment is based on skill and performance in a competitive environment.
A full list of approved sports for the practical assessment can be found in the links at the bottom of the page.
NCFE PE
Course Lead
Mr Nick Hitt
Examination Board
NCFE
GCSE PE and NCFE PE cover many of the same topics, but differ in how they are assessed. Both courses include five lessons over a two-week timetable: four theory lessons and one practical lesson. Practical lessons are used to support the theory content.
Both qualifications can lead to careers in areas such as medicine, sports science, and teaching. They also provide progression routes to Key Stage 5 courses including A Level PE, BTEC Sport, and BTEC Uniformed Protective Services.
Assessment for NCFE PE is split into two parts. Unlike GCSE PE, there is no practical performance grade. Instead, 40% of the final grade is based on examination and 60% on coursework.
The two units of study are:
- An Introduction to Body Systems
- Preparing and Planning for Health and Fitness
The examined unit focuses on An Introduction to Body Systems, while the coursework element is based on Preparing and Planning for Health and Fitness.
Throughout the course, students study topics linked to anatomy and physiology, as well as the cardio-respiratory system.
A Level PE
Course Lead
Mrs Naomi Philpot
Examination Board
OCR
Current Entry Requirements
- 5 GCSE grades 9–5
- PE, English, and Mathematics at Grade 6 or above
This excellent two-year course develops a detailed understanding of four compulsory modules:
- Physiological Factors Affecting Performance
- Psychological Factors Affecting Performance
- Socio-Cultural Studies Relating to Participation in Physical Activity
- Evaluation and Analysis of Performance for Improvement
Students will also complete a practical assessment, demonstrating their technical performance in one chosen sport.
This course can lead to a wide range of career opportunities and provides a strong foundation for Higher Education, including degree courses such as Sports Studies and Physiotherapy.
BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Sport
Course Lead
Miss Lauren Dent
Examination Board
Edexcel (Pearson)
Current Entry Requirements
- Preferably 5 GCSE grades 9–5, including English and Mathematics
This two-year programme introduces students to a wide range of topics related to sport. It prepares students for employment in the sport, coaching, and fitness industries, either directly after Sixth Form or through Higher Education at university or college.
The course provides a strong foundation of knowledge and practical skills for entering the sports industry, while also developing valuable vocational skills that enhance employability.
Students on the BTEC Sport programme also benefit from an exciting enrichment programme that runs alongside the course.
BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Uniformed Protective Services
Course Lead
Miss Lauren Dent
Examination Board
Edexcel (Pearson)
Current Entry Requirements
- Preferably 5 GCSE grades 9–5, including English and Mathematics
This modular course introduces students to a wide range of topics related to the Protective Services. The BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate is equivalent to one A Level and prepares students for employment in the services sector, either directly after Sixth Form or through Higher Education at university or college.
The course provides students with a strong foundation of knowledge and key skills for careers in services such as:
- Royal Navy
- Police
- Royal Air Force
- Fire and Rescue
Students will develop important teamwork, leadership, and communication skills, alongside other valuable vocational skills that enhance employability.
Units are designed to provide broad knowledge through practical, vocational learning, allowing students to develop transferable skills and pursue their interest in a chosen Protective Service career path.
For more information, please contact the College here: