Physical Education with Foundation Year

Why study Physical Education with Foundation Year at Liverpool John Moores University?

• The School of Sport and Exercise Sciences is ranked first in the North West and top 20 in the world for Sports Science (QS World University Rankings 2026)

• LJMU ranked in the top 20 universities in the UK for Sports Science (Complete University Guide Subject League Tables 2027)

• Delivered by academics with an international research profile and applied teaching experience

• Features a progressive curriculum that becomes increasingly focused and specialised

• Gain real-world experience and skills within the local community through work placements at each level of study and an optional sandwich year

• Aligned with the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity, ensuring you meet industry standards in the professional standard of Tutor, working in a school environment curriculum and working with children

• Taught in an inclusive, engaging learning environment, led by award-winning practitioners

• 100% of students said this course challenged them to achieve their best work (NSS 2025)

About your course
This engaging and challenging course integrates the theoretical and practical aspects of physical education into one exciting degree programme. There continues to be a high demand for graduates with the skills, knowledge and confidence to promote health and fitness, competitive sport and engagement with physical activity in a range of educational, community and other settings. This degree offers you the chance to specialise in physical education, exploring both the theory and practical aspects of the subject.

Students on the course apply their learning in practical physical education sessions, through assignments such as research projects, and work placements in industry. This combination of up-to-date theory and practical application serves our students well as they develop their careers through teacher training programmes, post-graduate study (Master's degrees and PhDs), in education (primary and secondary schools, further education), and at a host of non-teaching areas (businesses, community groups such as charities, and the uniformed services).

During your studies, you will develop your own philosophies and interests while being introduced to innovative concepts of physical education. You will gain a wide variety of essential professional skills and qualities that can form the foundation for a successful career teaching physical education in primary, secondary or further education, though teaching is not the only career pathway available.

The programme synthesises the practical and theoretical aspects of physical education through an extensive range of activities and contexts. You will have the opportunity to take part in innovative entrepreneurial projects by working within sport and physical education in different educational establishments and sporting ventures. This includes excellent work-related learning and placement opportunities with organisations such as LJMU's in-house Sport Start scheme.

You will be assigned a student peer mentor, and this support will be available before you arrive at LJMU and for the duration of your academic studies.

About the Foundation Year
The Foundation Year is ideal if you have the ability to study for a degree but don't have the qualifications to enter directly onto the honours degree programme. Once you pass the Foundation Year you will progress directly onto the first year of the honours degree. If you are a full-time UK student, you will qualify for student financial support for the full duration of your course (subject to eligibility criteria).

By choosing to study our Foundation Year, you will join a friendly and stimulating environment in which you will be encouraged to achieve your full potential in both your academic work and your future career. We pride ourselves on our informal and supportive relationships with our students.

Please visit the Liverpool John Moores University website for detailed module information

Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.

LJMU recognises that students perform differently depending on how they are assessed. That's why we use a combination of assessment methods, including written assignments, exams, practical work, individual and group presentations, portfolios, reflective logs and a dissertation.

Assessments are planned across the programme so that you can manage your workload, and use feedback to develop learning for future assignments. Constructive feedback will help you identify strengths and areas for development and is provided regularly throughout the programme.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• The Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity