This section focuses on the historical factors that had an impact on and continue to affect participation and improved competence in physical activity as part of a balanced, active and healthy lifestyle.

Studetns develop their knowledge, understanding and their ability to apply historical concepts that led to young people and other societal groups being physically active.

This knowledge and understanding will be developed through the study of the objectives, content and methodological approaches to Physical Education in state schools over time.

The application of historical concepts will enable candidates to evaluate critically consumer focused and other key societal influences that in both the past and the present have limited or encouraged involvement in physical activity. Student study the state of recreation pre- and post-industrial revolution; the time line continues with an in depth focus on the role of public schools in developing recreational activities and predecessors to the National Curriculum. Additionally students are required to understand the impacts of social factors on 5 case studies; bathing/swimming, athletics, football, tennis, and cricket.

The application of the knowledge gained will enable candidates to become informed and discerning decision-makers through the understanding of how people have made the most of the opportunities and pathways to be involved in physical activities in the past, and how this influences young people today.