Physical Education

 ‘Physical Education is about pupils learning about themselves; their capabilities; their potential and their limitations.  It is the foundation of all sports participation...but it goes beyond the individual and understanding themselves - it’s learning how to work with and respect others.’ 
(Lucy Pearson, England Cricketer)

The National Curriculum
As a compulsory National Curriculum subject, Physical Education develops pupils’ physical competence and confidence and an opportunity to perform in a range of challenging, creative and enjoyable activities.  All students have at least two hours of Physical Education a week including Citizenship P.E. Within these the students build upon the foundation of skills and knowledge acquired earlier at Key Stage 3 and develop Citizenship through the medium of PE.

Specialist Activity Areas
The students select specialist activity areas to study with the aim being to excel in their focus, preferred option. The choices available are:  Dance, Games, Aesthetics (Trampoline, Gymnastics), Health Related exercise, Football Academy and Outdoor and Adventurous Activities.  Additional accredited courses such as Sports Leaders UK level 1, ABC Fitness Award may be available, dependent upon staffing and popularity.

Personal Development
Pupils learn how to plan, perform and evaluate actions, ideas and performances to improve their own quality and effectiveness.  Through this process pupils discover their aptitudes, abilities and preferences and make choices about how to get involved in lifelong physical activity.  Physical Education provides opportunities for pupils to be creative, competitive and to face up to challenges as individuals and in groups and teams.  It promotes positive attitudes towards active and healthy lifestyles.

Healthy Lifestyle
Physical inactivity has had proven links with obesity, heart disease and general poor health. The benefits and value of exercise are always promoted, with the emphasis very much upon active involvement. Indeed, a health-related focus underpins all lessons. Along with the development of skills, analysis, observation and officiating in core lessons, Physical Education allows the students to truly develop a sense of self-worth, citizenship and moral character.

Pattern of Assessment
All students are awarded three levels between 1 and 8 (8 being exceptional and 5 being expected by the end of year 9) within each activity.  Each of these grades hosts characteristics of the National Curriculum levels of attainment. The student has access to all grades, stored on their ‘Self Assessment’ sheets, allowing them to reflect and evaluate effectively.