Sport, Physical Education and Professional Education
Sport, physical education and professional education is a programme designed for students who want to combine their passion for sport and physical activity with a commitment to teaching. Physical education teachers play a vital role not only in developing physical literacy and fitness in young people but in fostering teamwork, resilience, discipline and wellbeing, qualities that school sport develops in ways that extend far beyond the playing field. Qualifying as a secondary teacher through an integrated four-year degree rather than a separate postgraduate route is a distinctive and effective way to enter the profession.
At the University of Stirling, this four-year full-time programme qualifies you as a secondary school teacher through an experience that combines academic study with extensive classroom practice. Stirling is well known for its strength in sport science and its relationships with schools in Scotland, which means the practical dimensions of the programme are grounded in real teaching experience from early in the degree. The year abroad adds an international perspective, allowing you to engage with physical education and sport in a different educational culture.
You will study sport science, physical education pedagogy, curriculum design, educational psychology and the professional and ethical dimensions of teaching. You will develop your understanding of how children and young people learn, how to plan and deliver lessons across a range of activities, how to assess learning and how to manage diverse classrooms effectively. School placements are integral to the programme and develop your professional competence progressively.
On qualifying, you will be eligible to register as a teacher in Scotland and to work in secondary schools. Career development can lead to promoted posts, curriculum leadership, head of department and senior leadership roles within schools. Some graduates go on to postgraduate study in education, sports coaching or related fields.