Physical Education is a compulsory core subject in Years 7 to 11. From Year 9 pupils wishing to do so may opt to take physical education as a GCSE subject, those not working toward a GCSE will continue to participate in the core PE classes.

Physical Education in Years 7 to 8
Through a range of physical activities, pupils will gain understanding of several specific games and sports. Beyond the obvious benefits of broadening their education and ensuring a degree of physical activity, pupils will gain confidence, interpersonal and team based skills, leadership skills, and an ability to observe and analyse.

Pupils will be involved in: gymnastics, dance, outdoor and adventure activities, football, netball, basketball, hockey, badminton, rounders, cricket, and athletics.

Core Physical Education from Year 9
At this stage pupils will have opportunities to be involved in: football, netball, basketball, badminton, table tennis, rounders, cricket, softball, athletics, Swiss ball and weight training - there really is something for everyone!

GCSE Physical Education from Year 9
Pupils opting to take Physical Education at GCSE will follow a games course and, as well as physical participation in sports there will be additional focus on anatomy and physiology, acquisition of skill, sociology of sport, historical studies of sport, exercise physiology and biomechanics.

GCSE assessment
Work will be assessed via coursework and examination. Coursework continues throughout Years 10 and 11, the GCSE examination takes place either in Year 10 or Year 11, depending upon the individual learning needs and preferences of each pupil. 60% of the available marks are based upon practical work (which includes coursework) and 40% of the final mark will be based upon a written examination.

Equipment
Pupils must bring appropriate kit for all PE lessons and sports clubs. Kit lists can be found on the uniform page (you can use the link at the foot of the page to go straight there). From September 2004 we have been asking parents and families to ensure that pupils’ initials are embroidered directly onto the fabric of their sports kit.

Enrichment activities
We provide various extracurricular opportunities; in fact, it’s quite a list! Students can participate in clubs for netball, football, hockey, gymnastics, athletics, rounders, cricket, badminton, table tennis, basketball, tag rugby and even skiing!

Beyond GCSE
The school offers AS and A2 level Sports Science to sixth form students. Sixth form students wishing to continue with a programme of fitness and sports activities outside the curriculum offered can continue with their sports on Wednesday afternoons and in Complementary Studies.

Beyond school
A qualification in Physical Education will be invaluable for any student considering studying PE at university level. It will also prove useful in other areas such as pursuing a career in sports, nursing or leisure.