1946
The University of Birmingham became the first university in the UK to offer degree-level study in Physical Education, setting a national benchmark for the discipline.
Celebrating 80 years of teaching PE and sport
Eight decades of inspiring movement, learning and leadership
For 80 years, the University of Birmingham has been at the forefront of teaching Physical Education (PE), championing the power of movement, sport and physical activity to transform lives. What began as a commitment to high-quality physical education has grown into a nationally and internationally respected tradition of teaching, research and professional practice.
Today, this legacy lives on through our innovative taught programmes, our close links with schools and communities, and our continued impact on how physical education is taught, experienced and valued across the UK and beyond.
A proud and pioneering heritage
Physical Education has deep roots here, with Birmingham the very first traditional university to offer PE/sport. Over eight decades, the University has helped shape generations of teachers, coaches and education leaders, contributing to the evolution of PE from a skills-based subject to a rich, inclusive and evidence-informed discipline. Across this history, taught PE at Birmingham has been characterised by:
- A strong integration of theory and practice
- A commitment to educational relevance and professional preparation
- Leadership in responding to social, cultural and health-focused change
This long-standing focus has positioned Birmingham as a pioneer in physical education teaching within higher education.
- 1 → 100+
Birmingham’s PE course began with one student and grew to more than 100 undergraduates within a generation.
- 85%
First-year student participation. 85% of first‑year students were engaged in regular physical activity by the late 1970s, reflecting the lasting influence of Birmingham’s PE model.
- 9th in the World
9th in World
QS World University Subject Rankings 2026
Teaching that evolves with society
Taught Physical Education at the University of Birmingham has continually adapted to meet the changing needs of young people, schools and wider society. Our programmes emphasise:
- Inclusive and meaningful physical education for all learners
- Critical engagement with research and evidence
- Reflective, values-led professional practice
Students are encouraged not only to develop practical teaching expertise, but also to question, innovate and lead - equipping them for long and influential careers in education, sport and physical activity.
Recent leaders
University of Birmingham alumni who have gone on to join the world's best sports professionals
Multiple-times British Swimming Champion Ollie Morgan studied Sports, PE and Coaching Science, and competed at the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.
Birmingham’s lioness: Birmingham Sports Scholar Izzy Christiansen played football for the University, Birmingham City, Everton and Manchester City before her call up to the senior England squad. In 2016, she collected the award for FA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year. Photo (c) FA
Paul Manning graduated in Earth Sciences in 1996 before winning bronze, silver and gold medals as a Team Pursuit Cyclist for Team GB at the Olympics of 2004, 2008 and 2012. He went on to coach Team GB Olympic cyclists, and was especially thanked by Laura Trott after her double gold win at Rio in 2016 Photo (c) British Cycling
Chrissie Wellington won the ITU Long Distance World Championship in 2008. Chrissie studied Geography at Birmingham and holds the four fastest times in the World Ironman competition, was voted Sunday Times sportswoman of the year in 2009, and received an OBE in 2016.
From Sydney to Rio: The University of Birmingham has produced no fewer than six Team GB hockey players since 2000. The first goal in the final match of the gold-medal winning women’s team at Rio was scored by a partnership of Birmingham graduate Sophie Bray and Lily Owsley, then still at the University, who took the selfie above with her team-mates. Photo (c) Team GB
Educating generations of PE professionals
Over the past 80 years, thousands of graduates have gone on to make a difference as PE teachers, school leaders, policymakers, coaches and advocates for physical activity. Their impact can be seen in classrooms, communities and education systems around the world.
Through strong partnerships with schools and education networks - particularly across the West Midlands - our taught PE programmes remain closely connected to real-world practice, ensuring our graduates are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of modern education.
Research-informed teaching
Teaching Physical Education at Birmingham is underpinned by world-leading research in sport, exercise, health and education. This close relationship between research and teaching ensures that students benefit from contemporary thinking on:
- Physical activity and wellbeing
- Youth sport and participation
- Equity, inclusion and access in PE
- Curriculum innovation and pedagogical development
By embedding research into taught PE, we support future educators to become critical consumers and creators of knowledge within the profession.
Find out more
Sport at Birmingham
Sport at Birmingham
Our cutting-edge research and outstanding facilities make University of Birmingham a champion for sports-related courses and recreation – empowering students, athletes, and our community to redefine sporting excellence.
Discover our courses
Discover our courses
Alumni events
Alumni events
See some of our upcoming events and register your interest in attending, or view our full calendar.
Graduate School of Sport and Professional Practice
Graduate School of Sport and Professional Practice
The Graduate School of Sport and Professional Practice (GSSPP) is a world-leading centre for professional development in sport, physical activity, and rehabilitation based at the University of Birmingham.