Years 10 and 11
Sport science is a key stage 4 option only.
Awarding body
Course overview
The Cambridge National in sport science offers students an exciting opportunity to explore the science behind physical activity and sport. Through a combination of practical application and theoretical study, students will develop a deeper understanding of the key factors that influence sports performance and how to maintain and improve physical well-being.
This course is ideal for students with a passion for sport, fitness, and health, and provides an excellent foundation for further study or careers in the sports and health industries.
Topics covered
The course covers a wide range of relevant and engaging topics that give students a real insight into the scientific principles that underpin athletic performance and health. These include:
R180: Reducing the risk of sports injuries and dealing with common medical conditions
Students will explore how to minimise the risk of injuries and deal with common medical conditions in a sports setting. They will also learn how to respond appropriately to injuries and medical emergencies, developing key skills in safety and first aid.
R181: Applying the principles of training: fitness and how it affects skill performance:
This unit looks at different types of fitness, training methods, and how these impact athletic skills and performance. Students will design and evaluate their own training programmes to improve fitness for specific sports.
R183: Nutrition and sports performance:
Students investigate the role of nutrition in sport and how dietary choices affect performance and recovery. They will also learn how to create tailored nutrition plans to support different sporting goals and individual needs.
Assessment
R180: written paper, 1 hour
R181: centre assessed task (coursework)
R183: centre assessed task (coursework)
Recommended revision guides / course resources
OCR Level 1/Level 2 Cambridge National in Sport Science specification