Core Physical Education

How is the course assessed?

At Key Stage 3, there is a focus on building skills, fitness and confidence in sport. Students are assessed through the sports they take part in across the curriculum, with grades based on an average of their performance giving a holistic assessment of their physical literacy. Students receive regular verbal feedback in lessons. In addition, they complete three PINS assessments each year in football, fitness and cricket, where they receive personalised targets. Core PE is designed to promote the lifelong benefits of exercise, supporting physical health, mental wellbeing and social skills such as teamwork. Please note that Core PE grades do not link to GCSE sport grades, as those courses include a theory element. Instead, we place greater emphasis on students’ attitude to learning and active participation.

Grades reflect how consistently students demonstrate their skills, knowledge and application when participating across different sports. Students working at Grades 1–3 show some understanding of basic skills and rules, but need further support to apply them consistently. At Grades 4–5, students demonstrate most core skills with increasing confidence and are beginning to apply tactics and techniques more effectively. By Grades 6–7, students demonstrate the vast majority of core skills and some advanced skills with accuracy and control, showing good understanding of tactics and decision-making. Students achieving Grades 8–9 demonstrate high-level performance across multiple sports, combining advanced skills, tactical insight, and consistent application of skills in competitive situations.