Health & Leisure

S3 Elective Physical Education

The S3 Elective PE course is a stepping stone for those that might be interested in picking National 4/5 PE in the Senior Phase.  Pupils will continue to develop their skills across a range of different activities whilst also covering the following key areas: - data collection, identifying strengths and areas for development, setting goals, completing a range of different training approaches, monitoring and evaluating performance.  Pupils will also be assessed in different sports along with completing some written tasks to gauge their understanding of the theory elements.

National 4/5 PE

The National 5 Physical Education course is designed to develop pupils’ knowledge of the physical, mental, emotional and social factors. The course is structured into two main components:

1.        Performance (50% final mark): This component focuses on developing and demonstrating physical skills in a variety of activities. Pupils are assessed on their ability to perform effectively, applying techniques and strategies to enhance their performance.  By the end of the year pupils will have been assessed in a ‘1 off’ performance in 2 different sports, at the discretion of the PE department.

2.        Portfolio (50% final mark): This component involves a detailed analysis of performance, where pupils evaluate their strengths and areas for improvement. They also explore factors that impact performance, such as physical, mental, emotional, and social factors.  The Portfolio is completed throughout the course of the year with pupils working on this during class time.Top of FormBottom of Form

For further information on the National 5 PE Course please click on the link below

National 5 Physical Education - Course overview - SQA

Higher PE

The Higher Physical Education course is very similar to the National 5 course, with the exception being there is an exam at the end of the year instead of the Portfolio.  The weighting of the exam is 50% which means that the Performance remains at 50%.

For further information on the Higher PE Course please click on the link below

Higher Physical Education - Course overview and resources - SQA

NPA Sports Development

The (NPA) in Sports Development at SCQF Level 6 is designed for students interested in pursuing a career in sports development. This course focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of sports development, including the impact on communities and the sports industry.

• Unit 1: Activity and Participation Opportunities in the Community: This unit explores the various opportunities for physical activity and participation within Mearns Academy. Pupils learn to promote and lead extra curricular opportunities.

• Unit 2: Investigate Activity Development Opportunities in an Organisation: This unit involves investigating and planning sports development initiatives within the Mearns Community Campus. Pupils gain skills in planning, implementing, and evaluating sports programmes.

Assessment: The course is assessed through a combination of written assignments, research projects, and presentations. Continuous assessment ensures that students can apply their knowledge practically and reflect on their learning.  This is a pass/ fail course with pupils being provided with an opportunity to resit any outcomes that they fail.

Level 7 SFA Refereeing

The SFA/SQA Level 7 Refereeing Qualification is a Professional Development Award (PDA) designed to provide individuals with comprehensive knowledge and skills in football refereeing. Developed in partnership with the Scottish Football Association (SFA) and the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), this course focuses on the Laws of the Game, formal controls, misconduct management, match reporting, and fitness standards for referees.

Course Structure:

• Laws of the Game: In-depth understanding of the rules and regulations governing football.

• Practical Refereeing: Hands-on experience in officiating matches, applying theoretical knowledge in real-game scenarios.

• Fitness and Professionalism: Emphasis on maintaining physical fitness and professional conduct on and off the field.

Pathways / Career Links

Physical Education

At Mearns Academy, our Physical Education Curriculum is designed to develop a wide range of key skills for life and work in our pupils. Through engaging and diverse activities, pupils enhance their physical fitness, sport specific skills, teamwork, leadership, communication, and strategic thinking. Our curriculum promotes healthy lifestyles, self-discipline, and resilience, preparing pupils for both personal and professional success.

Key Pathways and Career Opportunities

Further Education: Examples of careers where pupils can go to further education and study, include: - Sports Science, Physical Education, Physiotherapy, Sports Nutrition and Sports Coaching.

Careers: Examples of employment where an interest/ qualification in sport, include: -Professional Athlete, PT, PE Teacher, Sports Coach, Sports Therapist, Event Management, Sports Journalist, Emergency Services, Leisure Industry and Active Schools.

Home Economics

At Mearns Academy, our Home Economics Curriculum is designed to develop a wide range of key skills for life and work in our pupils.  Through hands-on learning experiences, pupils develop culinary skills, nutritional knowledge, event management and how to follow a recipe. Our curriculum fosters creativity, problem-solving, critical thinking, independence and working safely in the kitchen.

Key Pathways and Career Opportunities

Further Education: Examples of careers where pupils can go to further education and study, include: - Nutrition, Dietetics, Hospitality Management and Consumer Sciences.

Careers: Examples of employment where an interest/ qualification in home economics, include: - Chefs, Nutritionists, Hospitality Industry, Teacher, Food Scientist, Sales Managers, Stock Controllers and Food Engineers.

Pupil Showcase / Achievements