Physical Education(PE)
Intent
Living an Active, Healthy Life
At St Joseph’s, we are committed to ensuring that all pupils lead active, healthy lives. Through daily physical education, school sport and regular physical activity, pupils develop essential life skills such as coordination, balance, teamwork, and both gross and fine motor control. Our curriculum introduces pupils to a wide variety of sports and physical disciplines, helping them discover activities they enjoy, build confidence, and ignite interests that may last a lifetime. We want our pupils to understand the importance of physical activity for their physical health, mental wellbeing and overall development.
Implementation
Every pupil participates in a minimum of two hours of physical activity each week. Each term, pupils learn at least two different sports or physical disciplines, with skills and knowledge carefully sequenced to ensure clear progression from Early Years through to Year 6. Lessons are designed to develop sporting skills, tactical awareness, resilience and teamwork.
Throughout the year, pupils benefit from teaching delivered by class teachers who ensure that they provide additional support, challenge and expertise. A wide range of after‑school sports clubs further enhances opportunities for pupils to engage in physical activity and deepen their skills.
Pupils regularly take part in intra‑school competitions (competing within school) and inter‑school competitions (representing St Joseph’s externally), giving them valuable opportunities to apply their learning in game situations. Active learning opportunities are also incorporated into the wider school day through movement in lessons, active playtimes and active travel initiatives ensuring pupils remain physically engaged beyond formal PE lessons.
Impact
Pupils develop a strong awareness of the importance of physical health and wellbeing, recognising how regular activity can positively affect their learning, behaviour, confidence and attendance. Over time, pupils demonstrate increased participation in physical activity both inside and outside of school, showing enthusiasm and commitment to leading active lives.
Clear progression is evidenced through skill‑based topic overviews, teacher assessments and regular reflections from pupils. These records highlight pupils’ growing competence in a range of physical skills, their ability to work collaboratively, and their understanding of sportsmanship and fair play.
By the end of their time at St Joseph’s, pupils are confident, motivated and capable young people who value physical activity and are equipped with the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.