National 5 Physical Education

Course Specification (15/08/2024)

Explains the structure of the course, including its purpose and aims and information on the skills, knowledge and understanding that will be developed.

Past Papers and Marking Instructions

Access all past papers by subject/level

Coursework (23/03/2026)

This section provides information on marking instructions and/or the coursework assessment task(s). It includes information that centres need to administer coursework and must be read in conjunction with the course specification.

Template and instructions

Understanding Standards (02/02/2026)

Examples of candidate evidence with commentaries

Further examples of candidate evidence and commentaries can be found on SQA’s secure website and you can access these through your SQA co-ordinator.

Webinar (recordings)

Portfolio (November 2025)

Portfolio (09 December 2021) (revised June 2023)

Portfolio (November 2022)

Portfolio (09 December 2021) (revised June 2023)

Portfolio (2020) (revised June 2023)

Audio Presentation​

Changes to Understanding Standards materials

Please note: Understanding Standards materials are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain up to date.

Course reports (02/10/2025)

Provides information on the performance of candidates - which is useful to teachers, lecturers and assessors in their preparation of candidates for future assessment.

Course Reports

Verification Reports

Physical Education: Quality Assurance - external verification

Guidance on activities

Ushare open learning resources