Physical Education

Our Vision for PE

At St. John with St. Michael’s CE Primary School, we believe that Physical Education (PE) is essential for developing healthy, active, and confident children. Rooted in our Christian values of respect, perseverance, and teamwork, our PE curriculum encourages pupils to enjoy physical activity, understand the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, and develop the skills to succeed both in school and later life.

Why PE Matters

PE promotes physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Through PE, pupils learn to:

• Develop coordination, balance, agility, and fitness

• Build confidence and resilience

• Work collaboratively and fairly as part of a team

• Understand the importance of healthy lifestyles and self-care

• Experience joy, challenge, and achievement through movement

Link to the National Curriculum

Our PE curriculum is fully aligned with the National Curriculum for England, which aims to ensure that all pupils:

• Develop competence to excel in a broad range of physical activities

• Are physically active for sustained periods

• Engage in competitive sports and activities

• Lead healthy, active lives

• Develop personal, social and teamwork skills through PE, games, dance, gymnastics, swimming, and outdoor adventure activities

(Based on the National Curriculum for England – PE)

What Pupils Learn

In EYFS, children:

• Explore movement and body awareness

• Develop basic coordination and balance

• Enjoy outdoor play and active exploration

In Key Stage 1, pupils:

• Develop fundamental movement skills (running, jumping, throwing, catching)

• Participate in team games and simple competitive activities

• Explore basic gymnastics, dance, and movement patterns

• Begin to understand the importance of exercise and healthy habits

In Key Stage 2, pupils:

• Refine and apply a range of movement skills in competitive and cooperative contexts

• Take part in team and individual games, dance, gymnastics, athletics, and swimming

• Understand tactics, strategy, and fair play

• Learn about the impact of physical activity on health and wellbeing

• Have opportunities to lead, coach, and organise activities

How We Teach PE

• Inclusive and Progressive: Lessons are adapted to ensure all pupils can participate and improve

• Engaging and Varied: Pupils experience a wide range of activities to develop skills and enjoyment

• Links to Health and Wellbeing: PE is closely linked with mental health, nutrition, and wellbeing education

• Competitive and Cooperative Opportunities: Pupils are encouraged to challenge themselves individually and work as part of a team

PE in Our School Community

PE at St. John with St. Michael’s develops not only physical fitness but also important life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and determination. Pupils take part in school sports days, local competitions, and enrichment opportunities, building confidence and pride in their achievements. By fostering a love of physical activity, we aim to equip pupils to lead healthy, active lives now and in the future.

Physical Education Curriculum Overview