Physical Development and Movement is an Area of Learning in the Foundation Stage. It gives children the opportunity to experience and develop a range of fundamental movement skills. These improve co-ordination, locomotion, control, balance and manipulation.

Teachers should enable children to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in:

• Athletics
• Dance
• Games
• Gymnastics.

Physical Development and Movement helps children gain confidence and self-esteem. Through taking part in physical activities, they begin to develop an understanding of safe practices and the relationship between physical activity and good health in everyday life.

Children should have opportunities to take part in daily physical activities, either indoors or outdoors, such as physical play and regular planned sessions of Physical Education. The Department of Education recommends that schools should provide children with at least two hours of curricular Physical Education each week. Planned activities should allow children to work individually, in pairs and in small groups.

Children come to school with a range of movement experiences. Teachers should help children to develop their fundamental movement skills. These are essential for long-term health, wellbeing and physical development.

KS1 and KS2

Physical Education is an Area of Learning in the curriculum. It focuses on children’s physical development, health and wellbeing. The Department of Education recommends that schools should provide pupils with at least two hours of curricular Physical Education each week.

Teachers should enable children to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in:

• Athletics (the basis of running, jumping and throwing)
• Dance (many activities can be linked to music and drama)
• Games (sending, receiving and travelling)
• Gymnastics (simple control and movement)
• Swimming (required only at Key Stage 2).

All children should experience a sense of fun, enjoyment and achievement though a variety of progressively challenging and innovative activities. Children should understand and appreciate the benefits of physical activity and the relationship between physical activity and good health.

Through a broad and balanced Physical Education programme, children should develop their knowledge, understanding and skills. This will enable them to participate and perform competently in a range of physical activities.

Children may come to school  on P.E. days wearing their P.E. kit. 

Swimming on Friday for KS2

P7 attend September - February

P5/6 attend February - June