BA (Hons) Secondary Physical Education with QTS

The BA (Hons) Secondary Physical Education with QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) program at Birmingham City University is designed to prepare students for successful careers as secondary school physical education teachers. This undergraduate degree combines theoretical study with practical teaching experience, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and qualifications needed to teach physical education to students aged 11-16 (Key Stages 3 and 4) in secondary schools. The program covers a range of topics including sports science, anatomy and physiology, pedagogy, curriculum design, and sports coaching. Students engage in placements within secondary schools throughout the program, gaining hands-on teaching experience under the guidance of experienced mentor teachers. The BA (Hons) Secondary Physical Education with QTS program is aligned with national curriculum standards and prepares graduates to inspire and promote physical activity, health, and well-being among young people.

1. Sports Science and Exercise Physiology: Students explore sports science principles, including anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and exercise physiology relevant to physical education. They learn how the body responds to physical activity, understand training principles, and apply sports science knowledge to optimize performance and prevent injury in physical education settings.

2. Pedagogy and Teaching Methods: The program emphasizes pedagogical approaches and teaching methods specific to physical education. Students learn effective instructional strategies, differentiation techniques, and assessment methods tailored to physical activity and sports contexts. They develop lesson plans, deliver practical sessions, and use technology to enhance learning experiences for secondary school students.

3. Curriculum Design and Development: Students study curriculum design and development for secondary physical education. They explore national curriculum frameworks, curriculum planning processes, and strategies for promoting inclusive and diverse physical activities. Students design engaging and progressive physical education programs that meet the needs and interests of students at different developmental stages.

4. Sports Coaching and Leadership: The program includes modules on sports coaching and leadership skills. Students learn coaching principles, communication techniques, and leadership strategies applicable to coaching sports teams and organizing extracurricular activities. They develop coaching competencies and gain practical experience in leading sports sessions and organizing sports events.

5. Health and Well-being Promotion: Birmingham City University's program highlights the importance of promoting health and well-being through physical education. Students explore health-related fitness, mental health benefits of physical activity, and strategies for promoting lifelong participation in physical activity. They learn to foster positive attitudes towards fitness and well-being among secondary school students.

6. Inclusion and Diversity in Physical Education: The curriculum addresses inclusion and diversity in physical education settings. Students learn inclusive teaching practices, adapt physical activities for students with diverse needs, and promote equality and accessibility in physical education programs. They develop skills to create inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and empower all students to participate in physical activities.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs are required to have completed their secondary education with a minimum academic achievement of 60-65% or above.

English Language Proficiency: 

• IELTS: Overall score of 6.0, with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL (iBT): Overall TOEFL score of 80.
• PTE Academic: Overall PTE score of 64.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

These scholarships provide opportunities for talented students to pursue their studies at Birmingham City University

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship:This scholarship is available to international students applying for full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programs at Birmingham City University.The scholarship covers a portion of the tuition fees, providing a financial boost to successful applicants.Eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and the scholarship amount may vary, so it is important to check the university's official website for the most up-to-date information.

Academic Merit Scholarship:Birmingham City University offers the Academic Merit Scholarship to high-achieving international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance.The scholarship is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.Eligibility criteria, application procedures, and the scholarship amount may differ based on the level of study and program, so it is advisable to visit the university's official website for specific details.

Country-Specific Scholarships:Birmingham City University provides scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions.These scholarships aim to promote diversity and cultural exchange, and the eligibility criteria, application requirements, and scholarship amounts can vary depending on the country or region.International students should check the university's website or contact the admissions office to find out if there are any country-specific scholarships available for their nationality.

External Scholarships and Funding:Birmingham City University also encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities offered by governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as corporate sponsors.The university's dedicated scholarship and funding team can provide guidance and support in identifying and applying for external scholarships.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary from year to year.

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Secondary Physical Education with QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) program at Birmingham City University are well-prepared to pursue diverse and rewarding careers as qualified secondary school physical education teachers. This program equips graduates with the necessary skills, knowledge, and qualifications to teach physical education to students aged 11-16 (Key Stages 3 and 4) within secondary schools.  

1. Secondary School Physical Education Teacher: The primary career pathway for graduates is to become qualified secondary school physical education teachers. Graduates are eligible to apply for teaching positions in secondary schools across England and Wales. As physical education teachers, they plan and deliver engaging and progressive physical education lessons, assess student progress, organize sports activities, and promote healthy lifestyles among secondary school students.

2. Head of Physical Education Department: Experienced physical education teachers may progress into leadership roles as heads of physical education departments within secondary schools. Head of PE roles involve curriculum leadership, staff management, budget management, and coordination of sports events and extracurricular activities. Head of PE professionals play a key role in shaping physical education programs and promoting sports participation within schools.

3. Specialist Sports Coach: Graduates with a passion for sports coaching may pursue specialist sports coaching roles within schools or sports clubs. They can work as sports coaches for school sports teams, community sports programs, or national sports organizations, providing expert coaching and guidance to young athletes and promoting talent development in specific sports disciplines.

4. Youth and Community Sports Development Officer: Some graduates may explore roles as youth and community sports development officers within local authorities, non-profit organizations, or sports agencies. They design and deliver sports development programs, promote sports participation among young people, and collaborate with community partners to enhance access to sports and physical activity opportunities.

5. Sports Development Manager: Graduates interested in sports management and development may pursue roles as sports development managers within sports organizations or governing bodies. They oversee sports initiatives, manage sports facilities, coordinate sports events, and implement strategies to increase sports participation and promote health and well-being through physical activity.

6. Physical Education Advisor or Consultant: Some graduates may transition into roles as physical education advisors or consultants, providing expertise and support to schools, education authorities, or sports organizations. They offer advice on curriculum development, assessment practices, and policy implementation to enhance the quality of physical education provision in schools.

7. Outdoor Education Instructor: Graduates with an interest in outdoor education and adventure sports may work as outdoor education instructors or leaders. They organize outdoor learning experiences, expeditions, and adventure activities for school groups, promoting teamwork, resilience, and personal development through outdoor pursuits.

8. Sports Science and Fitness Industry: Graduates may explore opportunities in the sports science and fitness industry. They can work as fitness instructors, personal trainers, or sports therapists in gyms, sports centers, or rehabilitation clinics, applying their knowledge of exercise physiology and sports performance to promote health and fitness.

9. Further Education and Higher Education Teaching: Some graduates may pursue careers in further education colleges or universities, teaching physical education or sports-related subjects to post-16 students or undergraduate students. They contribute to the education and professional development of future educators and sports professionals.