Jon Varey, PE and Sport Subject Advisor Subject Advisor

Filming the A Level Physical Education (H555) Evaluation and Analysis of Performance for Improvement (EAPI) is a key part of the assessment process. Done right, it ensures fair marking, smooth moderation, and most importantly gives your students the best chance to shine. 

In this blog I’ll explain how to film the EAPI, from setup to submission, following best practice as outlined in the latest Cambridge OCR moderators’ report. 

Before you begin please make sure you are aware of the details regarding the requirements and assessment of the EAPI in the guide to NEA Level.

What needs to be recorded?

Every EAPI video should include the entire process in one continuous recording: 

1. Observation of the performance and note taking (usually 10–20 minutes) 
2. Verbal response – where the candidate gives their analysis and development plan (no more than 30 minutes) 

There should be no cuts, edits, or pauses between these sections.

Before you press record: preparation tips

Use the right equipment

• A camera with clear audio and video. 
• A tripod or stable surface to keep the recording still. 
• We also recommend a clock in frame, so time limits are clear.

Location matters

• Use a quiet, private room with minimal background noise. 
• Ensure good lighting so that the candidate is clearly visible throughout. 
• Allow space for the candidate to observe the performance and respond comfortably.

Test beforehand

• Do a quick test recording to check sound and visuals. 
• Make sure your setup allows for a continuous 45-minute recording (approximate total time). Check the battery!

Recording the EAPI: step-by-step

Step 1: start the recording

• Begin the video before the candidate starts observing the performance. 
• Pan to the candidate’s blank note sheet and pen. 
• Ensure only blank notes are being used – no scripts or textbooks. Candidates should not bring any pre-prepared notes.

Step 2: observation and note-taking (10–20 mins)

• Record this section and the verbal response section in full. 
• Capture them watching the performance. Both the candidate and the observed performance must be clearly visible. OCR Train provides examples of how to capture this effectively. 
• Show the candidate actively observing and writing notes.

Step 3: the verbal response (max. 30 mins)

• No prompts or interruptions allowed from staff other than those suggested in the guide to NEA if required. 
• Candidate gives their evaluative comments followed by a development plan. 
• If the response exceeds 30 minutes, the candidate cannot be awarded above Level 3, unless approved by Cambridge OCR due to access arrangements.

Submitting the evidence: best practice

What to submit 

• A single, continuous video file with a clear file name.
• Candidate’s note sheet (as a digital copy on USB or through the submit for assessment platform). 
• The EAPI centre mark sheet showing the teacher’s awarded marks. 

Data protection 

• If posting USBs, encrypt them and check they can be opened on both Windows and Mac.
• Always send copies, not originals, in case of technical issues. 
• Keep your own backup of all submissions. 

Filming mistakes to avoid 

• Cutting the video between observation and verbal response. 
• Recording only the verbal response. Observation of the performance and note-taking must be included. 
• Using phones or smartwatches for timing without managing information access. 
• Allowing prompts or interruptions from off-camera staff.
• Going beyond the 30-minute limit without approval from Cambridge OCR.

Helpful tools and resources

The following resources on Teach Cambridge may be useful:

• Candidate notes sheet template 
• EAPI centre mark sheet 
• Moderators’ summer report 
• Candidate exemplars 

Filming the EAPI correctly isn’t just a technical task, it’s a critical part of ensuring assessment integrity and fairness for your students. Stick to the Cambridge OCR guidelines, prepare your filming process well, and you’ll save time, avoid stress, and support your learners to succeed.

Stay connected

If you have any questions, you can email us at pe@ocr.org.uk, call us on 01223 553998 or message us on X @OCR_PhysEd. Do also sign up to subject updates for information about resources and support.

If you are considering teaching any of our qualifications, use our online form to let us know, so that we can help you with more information.

About the author

Jon joined Cambridge OCR as a PE and sport subject advisor in September 2021 having taught in a variety of secondary schools across the country for over 20 years, gaining a wealth of experience and subject knowledge. During this time, he has set up, delivered, and assessed a wide range of courses within physical education and sport. In his spare time, he is a keen runner and enthusiastic mountain biker, enjoys attending sporting and music events when possible and walking his two whippets.