Physical Education
Intent
“A high-quality physical education curriculum inspires all pupils to succeed and excel in competitive sport and other physically demanding activities.”
— National Curriculum, 2014
At St Gerard’s Catholic Primary School, we are committed to providing a high-quality, inclusive and inspiring Physical Education curriculum that enables every child to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to lead healthy, active lives.
Our PE curriculum encourages all pupils to enjoy physical activity, achieve their personal best and develop resilience, determination and self-belief. Through a broad and progressive range of sports and physical activities, children develop fundamental movement skills, coordination, fitness, teamwork and tactical understanding within a safe, supportive and engaging environment.
Rooted in our Catholic ethos and the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, PE promotes the dignity of every individual and encourages pupils to demonstrate respect, fairness, compassion and inclusion. Children learn the value of teamwork, cooperation and supporting one another, recognising the importance of working together for the common good.
Alongside Relationships, Health Education and Science, our PE curriculum helps pupils understand the importance of physical and mental wellbeing, healthy lifestyles and positive participation. We aim to equip all children with the skills, knowledge and motivation to become confident, active and healthy citizens for life.
Implementation
At St Gerard’s Catholic Primary School, Physical Education is delivered through high-quality teaching that ensures a progressive, inclusive and engaging curriculum from Nursery through to Year 6.
Curriculum Delivery
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The PE curriculum provides a clear progression of skills, knowledge and vocabulary across all key stages, including the Early Years Foundation Stage.
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In Nursery and Reception, activities are aligned with the EYFS framework and focus on:
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Gross motor development
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Balance, coordination and spatial awareness
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Early movement skills through structured play and adult-led activities
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In Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, pupils build upon prior learning through:
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Fundamental movement skills in KS1
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Sport-specific skills, tactics and teamwork in KS2
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Opportunities for both competitive and cooperative activities
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Lessons are carefully adapted to ensure all pupils, including those with SEND and additional needs, can fully access and succeed within the curriculum.
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Activities are scaffolded using the S.T.E.P. model:
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Space – Where?
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Task – What?
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Equipment – With what?
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People – Who?
By adapting these elements, teachers provide appropriate support and challenge to meet the needs of all learners.
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Pupils in Nursery and EYFS are supported through play-based exploration, repetition and encouragement, enabling every child to participate confidently and experience success.
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Rooted in our Catholic ethos and the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, PE encourages pupils to show respect, inclusion, fairness and compassion while working together and supporting one another.
Swimming
In addition to weekly PE lessons, all pupils from Reception to Year 6 receive swimming lessons, including water safety instruction. This is delivered through an on-site pop-up pool, maximising pupils’ time in the water and supporting the development of confidence and competence in swimming.
Wider Opportunities
The PE curriculum is enriched through:
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Active playtimes and lunchtimes
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Walk to School initiatives
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Extra-curricular clubs and intra-school competitions
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Opportunities to participate in local school sport partnerships and events
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A strong focus on healthy lifestyles, wellbeing and positive mental health across the curriculum
Impact
The impact of the PE curriculum at St Gerard’s Catholic Primary School is demonstrated through the following outcomes:
Pupil Outcomes
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Pupils develop progressive physical skills, including agility, balance and coordination, from Nursery through to Year 6.
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Children in EYFS demonstrate increasing confidence in movement, spatial awareness and body control.
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Pupils acquire knowledge of rules, tactics and strategies, enabling them to participate successfully across a range of sports and physical activities.
Engagement and Attitudes
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Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes towards physical activity through enjoyment, motivation, resilience and perseverance.
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Children show increasing confidence to take risks, try new activities and work collaboratively, supporting strong personal development.
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High levels of participation are evident in lessons and extra-curricular activities.
Inclusion and Personal Development
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All pupils, including those with SEND and additional needs, are supported to access and achieve within PE lessons.
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Pupils develop important life skills, including:
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Teamwork
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Communication
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Respect and sportsmanship
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Younger children develop improved social interaction and cooperation through physical play and shared activities.
Health and Wellbeing
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Pupils understand the importance of regular physical activity and the positive impact it has on physical and mental wellbeing.
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Increased confidence, independence and self-esteem contribute positively to pupils’ overall wellbeing and readiness to learn.
Catholic Ethos
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PE supports the development of the whole child, encouraging pupils to care for their bodies as gifts from God.
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Pupils are encouraged to demonstrate fairness, empathy, respect and compassion, reflecting Gospel values and the principles of Catholic Social Teaching.
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Through teamwork and inclusion, children learn the importance of supporting others and contributing positively to the school community and the common good.
