Physical Education (P.E.)

Physical activity and understanding of a healthy life style is promoted through the PE curriculum. At North Star 180, our Primary Physical Education curriculum is designed to meet the needs of all pupils. Learning is carefully planned to be inclusive, accessible, and meaningful, supporting pupils to develop knowledge, skills, and understanding that are relevant to their lives. Through a well-sequenced and personalised approach, pupils are supported to make progress from their individual starting points, building physical confidence, independence, and readiness for future learning and life.

 Intent

The intent of the Primary Physical Education curriculum at North Star 180 is to ensure that all pupils:

• Acquire knowledge and skills: Pupils will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles and concepts of physical education, including the importance of physical activity for health and well-being. The students will develop fundamental gross motor physical skills, like running, jumping, catching, balancing, and co-ordination applying them in a variety of learning activities.
• Experience a broad range of activities: Our curriculum provides a range of opportunities for pupils to engage in various physical activities, including individual and team, dance, andsSwimming. This variety aims to foster a love for movement and encourage lifelong participation in physical activity
• Develop social, emotional and thinking skills: The curriculum is designed to provide learning opportunities for pupils to develop skills like working with others, independence, communication, problem solving, and be able to self-regulate through physical activity. Pupils are encouraged to work towards their personal best, reflect on their progress, and develop resilience in the face of challenges.
• Support EHCP outcomes and values: Our curriculum aligns and supports the outcomes outlined in the pupils’ Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and reflects the values of respect, resilience, and responsibility. We aim to create an environment where every pupil can thrive and achieve their potential.

The curriculum is ambitious and inclusive, ensuring that all pupils can achieve and succeed regardless of their individual needs. This is reflected in our tailored approaches to teaching, which consider each pupil’s unique abilities and challenges, fostering an environment where every child can flourish.

Implementation

The Primary Physical Education curriculum is implemented through a structured and sequenced approach:

• Curriculum structure: The curriculum is organised using the complete PE program into progressive units that build upon prior knowledge and skills, ensuring a coherent learning journey. Each unit is designed to be engaging and relevant, with clear learning intentions that guided instruction.
• Practical and variety of learning opportunities: Our curriculum emphasises practical, sensory, and a variety of learning experiences. Pupils engage in a variety of activities that promote physical literacy, allowing them to develop fundamental gross skills in engaging and meaningful contexts. This includes ball and hand skills, locomotion, teambuilding, gymnastics, learning through play and health and wellbeing. Pupils are also taught swimming and water safety, developing water confidence so they can access water activities throughout life.
• Teaching approaches for SEND Learners: We employ a variety of teaching strategies to support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This includes scaffolding tasks, supportive/modified equipment, providing additional support where necessary, and encouraging pupils to take ownership of their learning through choice and autonomy.
• Assessment for learning: Ongoing assessment is integral to our curriculum implementation. Teachers regularly assess pupils’ progress through formative assessments, observations, and pupils’ self-reflection. This information informs future planning and helps to tailor instructions to meet individual needs.

Through these approaches, we aim to create an environment that increases motivation and enjoyment in physical education, fostering a positive attitude towards physical activity and healthy living.

 Impact

The impact of the Primary Physical Education curriculum is demonstrated by:

• Progress from starting points: Pupils show significant progress in their physical fundamental gross motor skills, demonstrate knowledge and understanding about concepts in physical education and progress personal, thinking, social and emotional development from their individual starting points. This progress is tracked through regular assessments and reflects their engagement and effort in lessons.
• Increased independence and confidence: As pupils participate in physical education, they develop greater independence and confidence in their abilities. They learn to demonstrate personal bests, celebrate achievements, and understand the importance of perseverance.
• Transfer of learning to real-life contexts: The physical and thinking skills, alongside knowledge acquired in physical education, are transferable to real-life situations. Pupils learn to apply these in various contexts, enhancing their overall competence and confidence in everyday activities. We want our pupils to foster a positive outlook towards physical activity, enabling them to live happy, healthy lives.
• Achievement of EHCP Outcomes: Our curriculum supports pupils in achieving their EHCP outcomes, particularly in areas related to physical, sensory, personal, social, and emotional development. By fostering a sense of belonging and community, we help pupils build meaningful relationships and develop social skills.

The Primary Physical Education curriculum at North Star 180 is designed to be inclusive, ambitious, and impactful. Our curriculum focuses on personal, thinking, and physical skills, alongside social, and emotional development so that we prepare our pupils for a healthy and active future, equipping them with the skills and confidence necessary to thrive in all aspects of life.