Why do we teach PE?

At Barwick and Stoford, our commitment to physical education (PE) stems from a deep passion for nurturing the physical development and mental wellbeing of our students. We firmly believe in the importance of leading healthy lifestyles, and as such, we actively encourage and engage our students in various physical activities through a multifaceted approach. We aim to:

• Develop competence to excel in a broad range of physical activities
• Children are physically active for sustained periods of time (before, during and after school)
• Participate in competitive sports and activities
• Lead healthy, active lives

One of our primary avenues for promoting physical well-being is our PE curriculum. We have designed a comprehensive program that not only imparts essential physical skills but also instils a lifelong love for physical activity. Through carefully crafted lessons, we aim to develop our students’ physical prowess, coordination, and teamwork skills. In addition to structured PE lessons, we extend our commitment to fostering an active lifestyle through extracurricular activities. Our sports clubs provide students with additional opportunities to explore and excel in a diverse range of sports, cultivating a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship.

We believe in providing a platform for our students to showcase their physical talents. We actively participate in various competitions and festivals in the local area, offering opportunities for our students to demonstrate their skills and compete at different levels.

How do we teach PE?

At Barwick and Stoford, our approach to teaching Physical Education (PE) is carefully structured to cater to the developmental needs of our students at different stages. The implementation of our PE curriculum is designed to progressively build on skills, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable learning experience.

In the early years, children embark on their PE journey in Reception, where the focus lies on achieving the Early Learning Goals for physical development. Through engaging activities, children begin to explore and develop their physical abilities in a playful and supportive environment, laying the foundation for a positive attitude towards physical activity.

Moving into Key Stage One, our students shift their focus towards developing fundamental movement skills (FMS). Through a diverse array of fun and exciting sporting challenges, children are encouraged to refine their coordination, balance, and agility. The emphasis is on creating an enjoyable and inclusive atmosphere, fostering a love for physical activity from an early age.

As children progress into Key Stage Two, their PE education becomes more specialised. While continuing to hone their FMS, students are introduced to a broad range of both traditional and non-traditional sports. This diversity allows them to explore various physical pursuits, encouraging a holistic understanding of fitness and well-being.

Moreover, the curriculum in Key Stage Two incorporates principles of attacking and defending, particularly in invasion games. Students learn strategic thinking and teamwork, developing not only physical skills but also important social and cognitive abilities. The introduction of these elements enriches the PE experience, promoting a deeper engagement with the subject.

To provide a well-rounded PE experience, Barwick and Stoford goes beyond the traditional classroom setting. Outdoor adventurous activities become an integral part of the curriculum, especially during residentials. These activities include orienteering, climbing, water-sports, abseiling, and even surfing. Such experiences not only promote physical fitness but also instil resilience, teamwork, and a sense of adventure.