PE Insights

In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of examination Physical Education through an honest and practical conversation with James and Wayne — two experienced educators working across different OCR pathways. While the discussion begins with the OCR GCSE PE specification, James quickly clarifies his context, teaching the OCR Cambridge National (Level 1/Level 2) Sports Studies course. What follows is a rich comparison between GCSE PE and CNAT Sports Studies, grounded in lived classroom experience rather than exam-board rhetoric. Wayne reflects on nearly two decades in education, from Colchester Royal Grammar School to his current role in an independent setting, leading GCSE PE and co-curricular provision from Year 7 to Year 13. He breaks down why OCR GCSE PE works logistically, how students respond to the exam structure, and the realities of cluster moderation, practical assessment, and NEA delivery — warts and all. James shares his journey from higher education into secondary teaching in challenging contexts, offering a clear-eyed view of the CNAT Sports Studies course. He explores its flexible structure, practical units such as Sport and Leadership and Outdoor Adventurous Activities, and why early organisation and strong teacher paperwork can make or break student outcomes. Across the episode, we unpack: The differences between OCR GCSE PE and OCR CNAT Sports Studies Practical assessment, moderation, and grading challenges NEA delivery, time constraints, and common pitfalls What students enjoy most — and find hardest — across both pathways How assessment models impact different learner profiles We close by looking forward. Both guests share thoughtful hopes for the future of examination PE: qualifications that better reflect real-world physical activity, value diverse learner strengths, and allow schools to adapt provision without being penalised. A must-listen for PE teachers, Heads of Department, mentors, and anyone navigating curriculum choices in secondary PE. Want to take your learning further? Unlock exclusive PE resources, research, and CPD courses with PE Scholar Membership — your one-stop hub for professional growth and impact. Use code POD10 at checkout or visit https://psch.la/POD10 for 10% off today! We are excited to share that we have formed a partnership with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sports Directory⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, with their '⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠My School Rewards' Scheme⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, you’ll get 10% back on every order, helping you to grow your department budget. Check it out now.