Intent

At Our Lady School, we recognise the importance of having an active, healthy lifestyle for both our physical and mental wellbeing. We aim to inspire healthy young people to:

•  Follow the rules of a game
•  Demonstrate good sportsmanship
•  Set themselves personal challenges
•  Recognise their God-given potential
•  Engage in competitive sports and activities
•  Lead healthy, active lives.
   

It is our belief that physical activity, PE and school sport should be placed at the heart of school life with our children learning about the benefits of an active lifestyle and what this means for their own physical and mental health. We hope that the values and lessons they take from their experiences will develop into lifelong skills such as teamwork, resilience, determination, self-belief, passion, overcoming setbacks and respect.  

Implementation

 Our aim is for children to participate in two hours of physical activity a week, one of which is delivered by a specialist sports coach from Right Way Sports. The second hour is taught by class teachers. The PE lead and Sports Coach work together to ensure our curriculum is broad, inclusive, progressive and is in alignment with our school’s vision and values.

Our P.E. curriculum follows a clear progression of skills across all year groups, balancing individual physical development with team games, dance, gymnastics, athletics, and outdoor activities. Lessons are inclusive, differentiated, and designed to engage all pupils, including those with SEND.

The PE lead uses pupil voice, lesson observations and assessment grids to monitor progress and raise the quality of teaching and learning. Dialogue between the sports coach and PE lead supports reflection and curriculum development.

To extend participation the school offers after-school clubs, such as football and tennis. In addition, the children have access to a wide range of sports in the local area which take place during the school day throughout the year such as archery, athletics, football, running events, golf and cricket.

Impact

Pupil Impact

The expected impact of our PE Curriculum is that children will:

• Develop competence and confidence in a broad range of physical activities.
• Understand the importance of physical health and well-being and make healthy lifestyle choices.
• Display teamwork, resilience, and respect both in P.E. and across wider school life.
• Show clear improvement in physical skills, knowledge, and participation.

Whole-School Impact

Furthermore, PE contributes to the whole school Catholic ethos by fostering self-discipline, mutual respect and joy in participation. Pupil participation in sports supports behaviour, focus and mental-health across the whole curriculum. The school community recognises PE plays a key role in the personal development and character building of our children.

Leadership Impact

The PE lead strives to ensure improvement through effective planning, monitoring and collaboration with the sports coach. The PE Lead is also receptive to further physical and well-being activities which might arise from collaboration with local schools, businesses and charities.

Inclusion

Our inclusive approach and differentiation allow all children to learn regardless of ability, background, special educational needs or disability. We are committed to providing equal access to PE for all, recognising that children bring to school different experiences, interests and strengths that will influence the way in which they view physical activity. Teachers will use a variety of teaching styles and strategies to meet the needs of all children, to help them improve their skills and foster a positive attitude towards physical activity. Pupils are supported to achieve personal success and we recognise that progress looks different for each child.

Inclusion for PE is carried out in line with the school’s policies for SEND, More and Most Able, Equal Opportunities and the Disability Equality Scheme.

Early Years

• Children have access to a range of physical and gross-motor activities such as balancing, climbing, movement and coordination which helps to develop their physical skills, enjoyment of physical activity and well-being.
• It is recognised that lots of opportunities to further physical development is crucial to help children develop core strength. This helps with learning in all other subjects so they can sit and listen attentively on the carpet or at tables.