Option Descriptors (new S4-S6)
Click on the links below to view the subject course descriptor:
Physical Education
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COURSES IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION
The following Qualifications are available in the PE department; Level 4
Level 5
Level 6
Level 7
If any candidate is considering selecting two courses in the PE department they should discuss appropriate levels and pathways with the Principal Teacher. 
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PE PATHWAYS FROM S3
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION NATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
All our National Qualification courses are perfect for those students interested in, and passionate about health and wellbeing and sporting performance.
As a student works through the pathway they will develop their ability perform to an increasingly high standard in various activities. They will also deepen their understanding of the performance development process and take responsibility for planning, implementing and evaluating Personal Development Programmes focussed on improving performance across the Mental, Emotional, Social and Physical aspects of performance.
The courses are based around the core activities of Hockey, Badminton and Volleyball and other activities may be utilised to best suit the course content and needs of the learners.
All courses offer a degree of personalisation and choice, for example in selecting the activities in which candidates will complete their performance assessments, National 5 portfolio or Advanced Higher projects.
Course Assessments vary and are detailed individually below but all have both written and performance components which contribute to an overall award.
With this is mind it is key that students opting for National Physical Education courses enjoy participating in a wide variety of activities and enjoy the challenge that improving both practical and theoretical performance brings on a period by period basis.
In the PE department at Marr College we take great pride in supporting our young people to continue to improve in areas of interest and passion and we look forward to continuing the pathway to improved performance with those who elect to study National Qualifications in Physical Education.
Below you will find more detailed information on each of the qualifications in the Physical Education pathway. Attached are links to the relevant SQA webpages which contain vast amounts of information on the course. The Course Specification documents are recommended and will be particularly helpful at this stage.
National 4
https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/47394.html
Course Suitability
Most suitable for pupils who have achieved third level and have made some progress towards 4th level in S3.
Key Skills, Knowledge and Understanding
· demonstrating movement and performance skills safely in straightforward performance contexts
· demonstrating knowledge of factors that impact on performance
· developing knowledge of approaches to enhance personal performance
· monitoring, recording and reflecting on performance development
· decision-making and problem-solving in straightforward performance contexts
· organisational skills in preparing for, and during, physical activities
Assessment
Two Internally assessed units and an Added Value unit assessment.
Factors Impacting on Performance – written work demonstrating understanding of factors impacting performance and the ability to monitor, record and reflect upon the performance development process.
Performance Skills – learners must be able to demonstrate performance at National 4 level in at least 2 activities.
Added Value Unit – a single performance event for which learners must prepare, carry out and reflect upon their performance.
National 5
https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/47399.html
Course Suitability
Suitable for pupils who have made good or very good progress towards, or achieved 4th level in their Broad General Education in S3. Candidates electing in S5/6 should consult PE staff regarding most suitable qualification.
Key Skills, Knowledge and Understanding
· demonstrating a comprehensive range of movement and performance skills safely
· understanding factors that impact on performance
· planning, developing and implementing approaches to enhance personal performance
· monitoring, recording and evaluating performance development
· decision-making and problem-solving
Course Assessment
Factors Impacting on Performance – 60 mark written portfolio completed in class time. 50% of course assessment.
Performance – 2x 30 mark single performance events in two significantly different activities. 50% of course assessment.
Higher
https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/47901.html
Course Suitability
Most suitable for candidates who have successfully achieved an A or B pass at National 5 level in both English and PE. Candidates electing with no previous National Qualification experience in Physical Education should consult PE staff regarding most suitable qualification.
Key Skills, Knowledge and Understanding
· selecting, demonstrating and safely applying a broad and comprehensive range of complex movement and performance skills in challenging contexts
· decision making and problem solving in challenging contexts
· analysing factors that impact on performance
· explaining a range of approaches for developing performance
· creating and implementing a Personal Development Plan (PDP)
· analysing the recording, monitoring and evaluation of performance development
Course Assessment
Factors Impacting on Performance – 50 mark Question Paper written exam completed in the formal exam diet equalling 50% of overall course assessment.
Performance – 2x 30 mark single performance events in two significantly different activities equalling 50% of overall course assessment.
Advanced Higher
https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/48452.html
Course Suitability
Only suitable for candidates who are currently participating in sport at a competitive level. Entry to Advanced Higher Physical Education is most suitable for students who have achieved an A or B pass in Higher Physical Education and a strong pass in Higher English.
Key Skills, Knowledge and Understanding
Candidates will have the opportunity to;
· take a degree of responsibility for their own learning
· refine standards of personal performance
· set performance development targets
· plan the research and development of performance
· research, present and discuss information
· engage in critical review
· develop initiative and other personal skills of general value.
Candidates will be required to demonstrate the following;
Project
· demonstrating independent research and investigation skills
· investigating how factors impact on performance
· understanding and applying approaches to develop performance
· analysing and evaluating the process of performance development including future needs
Performance
· demonstrating a broad and comprehensive repertoire of complex skills
· demonstrating control and fluency of complex movement and performance skills
· demonstrating effective decision making and problem solving
· using and applying well-established composition, tactics and roles safely and effectively
· following rules and regulations and displaying etiquette (including working with others)
· controlling emotions on the day of the performance
Course Assessment
Project – 70 mark 5,000 word project based on the analysis and development of performance. 70% of course assessment.
Performance – 30 marks on a single performance in one physical activity in a challenging and competitive/demanding context. 30% of course assessment.
All our National Qualification courses are perfect for those students interested in, and passionate about health and wellbeing and sporting performance.
As a student works through the pathway they will develop their ability perform to an increasingly high standard in various activities. They will also deepen their understanding of the performance development process and take responsibility for planning, implementing and evaluating Personal Development Programmes focussed on improving performance across the Mental, Emotional, Social and Physical aspects of performance.
The courses are based around the core activities of Hockey, Badminton and Volleyball and other activities may be utilised to best suit the course content and needs of the learners.
All courses offer a degree of personalisation and choice, for example in selecting the activities in which candidates will complete their performance assessments, National 5 portfolio or Advanced Higher projects.
Course Assessments vary and are detailed individually below but all have both written and performance components which contribute to an overall award.
With this is mind it is key that students opting for National Physical Education courses enjoy participating in a wide variety of activities and enjoy the challenge that improving both practical and theoretical performance brings on a period by period basis.
In the PE department at Marr College we take great pride in supporting our young people to continue to improve in areas of interest and passion and we look forward to continuing the pathway to improved performance with those who elect to study National Qualifications in Physical Education.
Below you will find more detailed information on each of the qualifications in the Physical Education pathway. Attached are links to the relevant SQA webpages which contain vast amounts of information on the course. The Course Specification documents are recommended and will be particularly helpful at this stage.
National 4
https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/47394.html
Course Suitability
Most suitable for pupils who have achieved third level and have made some progress towards 4th level in S3.
Key Skills, Knowledge and Understanding
· demonstrating movement and performance skills safely in straightforward performance contexts
· demonstrating knowledge of factors that impact on performance
· developing knowledge of approaches to enhance personal performance
· monitoring, recording and reflecting on performance development
· decision-making and problem-solving in straightforward performance contexts
· organisational skills in preparing for, and during, physical activities
Assessment
Two Internally assessed units and an Added Value unit assessment.
Factors Impacting on Performance – written work demonstrating understanding of factors impacting performance and the ability to monitor, record and reflect upon the performance development process.
Performance Skills – learners must be able to demonstrate performance at National 4 level in at least 2 activities.
Added Value Unit – a single performance event for which learners must prepare, carry out and reflect upon their performance.
National 5
https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/47399.html
Course Suitability
Suitable for pupils who have made good or very good progress towards, or achieved 4th level in their Broad General Education in S3. Candidates electing in S5/6 should consult PE staff regarding most suitable qualification.
Key Skills, Knowledge and Understanding
· demonstrating a comprehensive range of movement and performance skills safely
· understanding factors that impact on performance
· planning, developing and implementing approaches to enhance personal performance
· monitoring, recording and evaluating performance development
· decision-making and problem-solving
Course Assessment
Factors Impacting on Performance – 60 mark written portfolio completed in class time. 50% of course assessment.
Performance – 2x 30 mark single performance events in two significantly different activities. 50% of course assessment.
Higher
https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/47901.html
Course Suitability
Most suitable for candidates who have successfully achieved an A or B pass at National 5 level in both English and PE. Candidates electing with no previous National Qualification experience in Physical Education should consult PE staff regarding most suitable qualification.
Key Skills, Knowledge and Understanding
· selecting, demonstrating and safely applying a broad and comprehensive range of complex movement and performance skills in challenging contexts
· decision making and problem solving in challenging contexts
· analysing factors that impact on performance
· explaining a range of approaches for developing performance
· creating and implementing a Personal Development Plan (PDP)
· analysing the recording, monitoring and evaluation of performance development
Course Assessment
Factors Impacting on Performance – 50 mark Question Paper written exam completed in the formal exam diet equalling 50% of overall course assessment.
Performance – 2x 30 mark single performance events in two significantly different activities equalling 50% of overall course assessment.
Advanced Higher
https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/48452.html
Course Suitability
Only suitable for candidates who are currently participating in sport at a competitive level. Entry to Advanced Higher Physical Education is most suitable for students who have achieved an A or B pass in Higher Physical Education and a strong pass in Higher English.
Key Skills, Knowledge and Understanding
Candidates will have the opportunity to;
· take a degree of responsibility for their own learning
· refine standards of personal performance
· set performance development targets
· plan the research and development of performance
· research, present and discuss information
· engage in critical review
· develop initiative and other personal skills of general value.
Candidates will be required to demonstrate the following;
Project
· demonstrating independent research and investigation skills
· investigating how factors impact on performance
· understanding and applying approaches to develop performance
· analysing and evaluating the process of performance development including future needs
Performance
· demonstrating a broad and comprehensive repertoire of complex skills
· demonstrating control and fluency of complex movement and performance skills
· demonstrating effective decision making and problem solving
· using and applying well-established composition, tactics and roles safely and effectively
· following rules and regulations and displaying etiquette (including working with others)
· controlling emotions on the day of the performance
Course Assessment
Project – 70 mark 5,000 word project based on the analysis and development of performance. 70% of course assessment.
Performance – 30 marks on a single performance in one physical activity in a challenging and competitive/demanding context. 30% of course assessment.
SKILLS FOR WORK COURSES
Sport and Recreation - National 5
https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/69489.html
If you are passionate about working with others and are considering a job or career in leisure or coaching this qualification is perfect preparation.
Sport and Recreation is an experiential learning course combines opportunities to develop the skills and abilities required to lead sports sessions, act as a personal trainer and develop greater knowledge of the roles and employment opportunities within the sport and recreation industry. Skills for work courses have been very successful in the PE department at Marr College with many of our young people being recognised for the work they put in to support the local community while completing this course.
The SQA information is included below however the course in Marr College extends to leading sports sessions for our cluster primary pupils as well as experiencing work at local leisure facilities. (access dependant)
Suitable Candidates
Students will learn and develop the key skills for work and employability however students opting for the Sport and Recreation Course must have a keen interest in this area and be committed to attending all sessions as course assessment is linked closely to attendance for, and completion of all four key units.
Candidates, while supervised, are required to lead both their peers and groups of young learners and as a result must be comfortable presenting in front of others.
Candidates are most likely to elect for this course in S5 or S6.
S4 Pupils will be considered if they have completed our Young Leaders course successfully as part of their S3 PE course.
What the SQA says
‘National 5 Skills for Work: Sport and Recreation is an introductory qualification. It develops the skills, knowledge and attitudes, needed for work in the industry.
The Course content covers the main practical activities involved in carrying out a supportive role in sport and recreation environments: sourcing information about career pathways, identifying and reviewing skills and experiences; assisting with planning, setting up and delivering activity sessions; dealing effectively and courteously with clients; assisting with emergency procedures; assisting with setting up, dismantling and checking equipment and resources; helping to plan and review a training programme; and establishing good practice in identifying and reviewing goals. The Course also covers health and safety legislation and risk assessment.
At National 5, candidates will learn about:
Candidates will develop relevant vocational skills and a variety of employability skills in the context of a sport and recreation setting.’
https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/69489.html
If you are passionate about working with others and are considering a job or career in leisure or coaching this qualification is perfect preparation.
Sport and Recreation is an experiential learning course combines opportunities to develop the skills and abilities required to lead sports sessions, act as a personal trainer and develop greater knowledge of the roles and employment opportunities within the sport and recreation industry. Skills for work courses have been very successful in the PE department at Marr College with many of our young people being recognised for the work they put in to support the local community while completing this course.
The SQA information is included below however the course in Marr College extends to leading sports sessions for our cluster primary pupils as well as experiencing work at local leisure facilities. (access dependant)
Suitable Candidates
Students will learn and develop the key skills for work and employability however students opting for the Sport and Recreation Course must have a keen interest in this area and be committed to attending all sessions as course assessment is linked closely to attendance for, and completion of all four key units.
Candidates, while supervised, are required to lead both their peers and groups of young learners and as a result must be comfortable presenting in front of others.
Candidates are most likely to elect for this course in S5 or S6.
S4 Pupils will be considered if they have completed our Young Leaders course successfully as part of their S3 PE course.
What the SQA says
‘National 5 Skills for Work: Sport and Recreation is an introductory qualification. It develops the skills, knowledge and attitudes, needed for work in the industry.
The Course content covers the main practical activities involved in carrying out a supportive role in sport and recreation environments: sourcing information about career pathways, identifying and reviewing skills and experiences; assisting with planning, setting up and delivering activity sessions; dealing effectively and courteously with clients; assisting with emergency procedures; assisting with setting up, dismantling and checking equipment and resources; helping to plan and review a training programme; and establishing good practice in identifying and reviewing goals. The Course also covers health and safety legislation and risk assessment.
At National 5, candidates will learn about:
- assisting with planning, setting up and delivering activity sessions
- assisting with setting up, dismantling and checking equipment and resources
- assisting with accident and emergency procedures
- dealing effectively and courteously with clients, staff and others
- helping to plan and review a personal training programme
- establishing good practice in identifying and reviewing personal goals
- sourcing information about career pathways
- identifying and reviewing skills and experiences
Candidates will develop relevant vocational skills and a variety of employability skills in the context of a sport and recreation setting.’
Leadership through Sport
Our new Leadership through Sport course will combine the SQA’s 60 hour level 6 Leadership award worth 9 SCQF credits with a range of other sport and leadership opportunities.
The aim of the Sports Leadership course is to equip senior pupils with a range of sports coaching qualifications and practical experience, with a view to increasing employability and skill set. The course will:
In addition to participating in the appropriate modules each student will be required to volunteer a minimum of thirty hours throughout the year delivering sports and activities in Marr College, Feeder Primary Schools or in the Marr Community.
Our new Leadership through Sport course will combine the SQA’s 60 hour level 6 Leadership award worth 9 SCQF credits with a range of other sport and leadership opportunities.
The aim of the Sports Leadership course is to equip senior pupils with a range of sports coaching qualifications and practical experience, with a view to increasing employability and skill set. The course will:
- Provide opportunities in training, experience, team work and in sports coaching.
- Highlight and create pathways into future employment or further education.
- Promote child protection, first aid and disability awareness.
- Recruit new volunteers and develop to sustain a network of activities within the school and community.
- Promote healthy active lifestyles through the provision of a variety of sports and activities in the Marr College community.
In addition to participating in the appropriate modules each student will be required to volunteer a minimum of thirty hours throughout the year delivering sports and activities in Marr College, Feeder Primary Schools or in the Marr Community.
Benefits for pupils completing Sports Leadership;
On completion of the course pupils will receive a range of coaching awards which could include and more where possible
Suitable Candidates
Suitable candidates for this course will be S6 pupils who have completed Level 5 Sport and Recreation; and shown an interest and commitment to Physical Education throughout their time at Marr College.
- Develops home grown coaches for the community in the hope that new sporting clubs will be formed and existing clubs supported.
- Positive employment destinations for pupils eg employment through South Ayrshire seasonal coaches, South Ayrshire Active Schools, Volunteering, paid coaching hours at University
- Positive further education destinations for pupils eg entry to college and university courses, personal statements etc
- Building on already successful initiatives eg summer camp programme, primary visits and sports events.
- Develop confidence and organisational skills within the pupils.
- Extra Opportunity to develop own progress within a variety of activities
On completion of the course pupils will receive a range of coaching awards which could include and more where possible
- SCQF Level 6 Leadership Award
- Disability Awareness
- Leadership in Rugby
- Leadership in Hockey
- Leadership in Volleyball
- Leadership in Tennis
- Leadership in Golf
- First Aid training
Suitable Candidates
Suitable candidates for this course will be S6 pupils who have completed Level 5 Sport and Recreation; and shown an interest and commitment to Physical Education throughout their time at Marr College.
Level 6 NPA – Exercise and Fitness Leadership
The NPA in Exercise and Fitness Leadership provides a structured opportunity for candidates to experience a number of recognised ways of leading others in fitness activities. The NPA allows candidates to develop their personal leadership qualities and to develop their knowledge and skills in fitness. The award is designed to articulate with current HNC/D Fitness, Health and Exercise provision and to support candidates who may wish to follow that particular pathway
Aims of the Course
Content of the Course
Candidates will complete 3 units and each relevant assessment outcome on;
Course Entry Requirements
Suitable candidates for this course will be S5 or S6 pupils who have achieved a strong pass in National 5 PE or Higher PE and have a particular interest in exercise and fitness. A background knowledge in Biology or Anatomy would also be beneficial.
The NPA in Exercise and Fitness Leadership provides a structured opportunity for candidates to experience a number of recognised ways of leading others in fitness activities. The NPA allows candidates to develop their personal leadership qualities and to develop their knowledge and skills in fitness. The award is designed to articulate with current HNC/D Fitness, Health and Exercise provision and to support candidates who may wish to follow that particular pathway
Aims of the Course
- Develop the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of current practices, thinking and philosophies of sport and fitness and their impact on specific aspects of industry.
- Develop the candidate’s knowledge and skills in planning, implementing and evaluating aspects of the Sport and Fitness Industry.
- Enhance the candidate’s prospects for their continuing education in the industry or outside it by the development of transferable skills.
- Offer opportunities to develop core skills in a setting relevant to the industry.
- Allow candidates to acquire some of the basic skills and knowledge required by the industry.
Content of the Course
Candidates will complete 3 units and each relevant assessment outcome on;
- Cardiovascular Training
- Fixed Weight Training
- Circuit Training.
Course Entry Requirements
Suitable candidates for this course will be S5 or S6 pupils who have achieved a strong pass in National 5 PE or Higher PE and have a particular interest in exercise and fitness. A background knowledge in Biology or Anatomy would also be beneficial.
Studying PE can eventually lead you to exciting career options in:
- Healthcare (Nursing and Physiotherapy),
- Education (primary, secondary and further education teaching and personal training and),
- Sport and Leisure (sports coach and leisure attendant),
- Sports Science, Nutrition and many more!
