Physical Education

Sport is integral to life at Cobham Hall. PE forms part of every student’s timetable for Year 7 through to Year 13 and provides a balance to academic study, promoting physical and mental health and wellbeing.

Students are encouraged to take part in Inter-House competitions and the many co-curricular clubs we offer. Many students have the chance to represent the School at matches, with some also going on to compete at regional, national and international competitions. We work closely with external coaches and clubs to offer a wide range of sports.

Our students are passionate about sport, regardless of their ability level. There is a healthy balance between striving for excellence as well as reaching individual goals.

There is no doubt in my mind that the P.E. Department want to develop every student, no matter their ability level. If you’re trying your best, the P.E. teacers will have all the time in the world for you. Whether there’s after school galas, lunchtime netball matches, sports trips, or freezing cross-country competitions, you can bet the teachers will be there, supporting us every step of the way. I would never have got to the level I am at or gained all the skills I have in sport if it wasn’t for the ongoing support of the P.E. Department. – Maisy, Sixth Form


Years 7, 8 and 9

Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 have three P.E. lessons each week, giving scope to deliver a variety of sports including hockey, netball, swimming, athletic events, tennis and rounders. Students also play badminton and begin trampolining in Year 9.

Students are taught swimming by a top club level coach as well as our Head of Physical Education to assist the development of all levels. The students learn stroke techniques and receive vital preparation for the many galas throughout the year.


Years 10, 11, 12 and 13

At Cobham Hall, we believe physical wellbeing and activity are important and so students who choose not to take GCSE or A Level P.E. will still have timetabled lessons and are encouraged to select a variety of physical activities from a series of options. Netball and hockey are pursued by the majority of students to ensure that their skill level continually improves. Alongside these sports, students also enjoy badminton, aerobics, fitness, swimming, trampolining, tennis, athletics and rounders.


Years 10 and 11: GCSE PE

Throughout the GCSE P.E. course, students will have the opportunity to study a variety of sports as a competitor. The theoretical aspects of the course are varied and engaging. Students will develop an understanding of the physiological, psychological and social aspects of sport, all of which enhance their overall confidence in P.E.


Years 12 and 13: A Level PE

The A Level course builds on previous knowledge gained through GCSE PE. The course enables students to critically analyse and evaluate their physical performance and apply their experience of practical activity in developing their knowledge and understanding of the subject.

Students are able to explore an activity in detail as a competitor or coach, chosen from a wide variety of sporting activities. Students will also develop the ability to analyse and evaluate performance in a chosen activity, and will have many opportunities to further develop their skills in Physical Education through a wide range of clubs as well as timetabled lessons in a variety of activities. Those taking A Level P.E. are encouraged to take positions of responsibility to develop leadership and confidence.

Outside the Classroom

Inter-House competitions, such as netball, cross-country and hockey are keenly contested with House Captains encouraging as many students to take part as possible.

Matches in the majority of sports are also played against other schools. Competitive sports is deemed extremely important. Students compete in a variety of sports and those who excel are encouraged to play at club level and trial at county level where possible. Extra-curricular sport is an essential part of the Physical Education Department, with an extremely high 75% of the student body taking part in at least one sports club out of school hours.

The P.E. Department also offer biennial trips, and in recent years these have included skiing, and a netball tour to Barbados.


Sports Day

Sports Day is the final Inter-House event of the year, and House Spirit is shown in abundance. Students of all years and abilities are encouraged to take part, and when not participating, cheering is a must! In addition to a trophy for the overall winning House, awards are also given to recognise the best-performing athletes across the School.