Physical Education and Youth Sport BA (Hons)

Learn how to inspire children to develop healthy habits and a love of physical activity. Prepare for a range of career options in primary and secondary physical education and sports coaching. Make a difference that can last a lifetime.

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Overview

You’ll be introduced to the national curriculum of primary and secondary physical education with an emphasis on child development, diversity and inclusivity. Sports coaching benchmark statements are embedded in the coaching element of the course which, combined with the physical education component, gives this course an emphasis on practical delivery.

As part of the course, you’ll undertake a minimum of 276 hours in compulsory placement, gaining experience working with 4-11 year-old children and 11-16 year-olds as the course progresses. These practice elements take place throughout the three years of the course culminating in the final stage placement module (Professional Practice in Physical Education and Youth Sport 3).

Why us?

You’ll be encouraged to join the University Sport Sunderland volunteer scheme to gain additional employment-related experience and apply your knowledge in real work situations
A highly practical-based course that will develop your knowledge and skills to enable you to apply to teach physical education in schools
The course responds to feedback from practitioners that students with a desire to work in practical environments require more time in the field and less time in a classroom

'World-leading' research in Sport and Exercise Sciences according to the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF)
Our Sports Science courses were ranked 3rd overall in the UK in the 2018 UK Engagement Survey
Our Sports Science courses were ranked 3rd in the UK for Assessment and Feedback, 3rd in the UK for Retention and Progression, and 3rd in the UK for Employability in the 2018 UK Engagement Survey

Course structure

Our teaching methods are designed to develop both your knowledge and also skills that enhance employability. Methods include small group work, practical activities, workshops, lectures, tutorials, computer-based learning, presentations and independent learning.

There are also on-going assessments for feedback and consolidating your learning. Assessment methods include reports, practical work and presentations.

The University has regional links with schools and organisations to provide placement opportunities for the development of skills and experiences.

Year 1 (national level 4):

Academic and Professional Skills (20 credits)
Principles of Physical Education and Youth Sport 1 (20 credits)
Professional Practice in Physical Education and Youth Sport 1 (20 credits)
Curriculum Studies (20 credits)
Introduction to Motor Skills (20 credits)
Introduction to Coaching Leadership (20 credits)

Year 2 (national level 5):

Research Design and Analysis (20 credits)
Professional Practice in Physical Education and Youth Sport 2 (20 credits)
Principles of Physical Education and Youth Sport 2 (20 credits)
Theory and Practice of Sports Coaching (20 credits)
Growth and Child Development (20 credits)
Professional Studies (20 credits)

Final year (national level 6):

Dissertation (20 credits)
Principles of Physical Education and Youth Sport 3 (20 credits)
Professional Practice in Physical Education and Youth Sport 3 (20 credits)
Contemporary Practice in Physical Education (20 credits)
Developing Excellence in Sports Coaching (20 credits)
Adaptive Physical Activity (20 credits)

Facilities

Sunderland's outstanding facilities include laboratories with the latest fitness equipment and technology. There is also a fully equipped sports hall where you'll undertake the majority of your practical sessions.

Entry requirements

Our typical offer is 112 UCAS points from a minimum of two A Levels or equivalent (e.g. 1 x AVCE double award).

Find out how many points your qualifications are worth using the UCAS Tariff calculator.

We also require three passes at GCSE grade C or above, which must include Mathematics and English Language, or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number. If you have studied for a GCSE which has a numerical grade then you will need to achieve a grade 4 or above.

If you are offered a place on this course, you must have a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check before it commences. The University will cover the cost of the check and will send you relevant information on how to complete this.

If you don't meet our standard entry requirements, we also offer this course with an Integrated Foundation Year.

If English is not your first language, please see our English language requirements.

Fees and finance

The annual fee for this course is:

£9,250 if you are from the UK / EU
£12,000 if you are an international student

If you are not sure whether you qualify as a UK, EU or international student, find out more in our Help and Advice article.

Take a look at the Your Finances section to find out about the scholarships and bursaries that may be available to you.

Use our scholarships calculator to see what you may be entitled to.

Scholarships calculator

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This information was correct at the time of publication.

Career ready

This course responds to the drive for primary physical education specialists and offers preparation for secondary PE teaching to those who wish to undertake a postgraduate teacher training route after graduation. The course also embraces areas of sports coaching providing you with the opportunity to work in your chosen area.

Career options

Potential employers for graduates of this course include sports clubs, schools and colleges, national sports associations, sports and leisure companies, recreation services and local authorities.

During the course you'll be encouraged and supported to obtain National Governing Body Coaching Awards to support future development. This will allow you to develop the skills required to become an effective coach across a range of activities. Currently, the course has strong links with the Football Association and the English Cricket Board, as well as links to dance education and outdoor adventure activity specialists. These links, wherever possible, offer experiential learning in addition to certificated courses.

Job roles include PE teacher (primary and secondary), sports coach/instructor. Some roles may require further training.

Meet the students

For me the best thing about coming to university is meeting so many incredible people on my course

Stephen Creighton

Meet the team

Related courses

Contact

Contact the Student Helpline for further information about studying at the University of Sunderland:

0191 515 3000
student.helpline@sunderland.ac.uk

View Programme Specifications for the Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing.

Page last updated: 05 June 2020

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