Ark Academy Primary recognises the vital contribution of physical education (PE) to a child’s physical, cognitive, social and emotional development, as well as the role it can play in relation to a child’s spiritual, moral and cultural development. PE is an integral part of the curriculum to be enjoyed by all children. It is a real opportunityfor both teachers and children to consolidate and work on the values that underpinevery aspect of school life.
It is the intention of the school to provide a broad and balanced PE curriculum to aid and increase children’s self-confidence in relation to their ability to manage themselves and their bodies within a variety of movement situations.
The aim is to cater for the different strengths, needs and preferences of each child by using differentiated activities (where appropriate) consisting of individual paired and group activities. Through the variety of opportunities that PE offers, children can develop a sense of personal achievement, fair play, teamwork and an understanding of the ways in which sport can transcend social and cultural boundaries. A range ofactivities will therefore be provided with a broad base of movement knowledge, skillsand understanding, which children can refine and expand throughout their primary school years.
Children who are taught to appreciate the importance of a healthy and fit body begin to understand those factors which affect health and fitness. Our aim to raise children’s awareness in this regard is therefore closely aligned with the school’s policy on Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE).
Different experiences for different age groups will ensure all pupils will be exposed to a range of appropriate challenges as they move through the school so that they:
· develop physical competence and confidence by acquiring and developing a range of fine and gross motor skills.
· become aware of the different shapes and movements that can be made with the body.
· develop knowledge, skills and understanding, and the ability to remember, repeat and refine actions with increasing control and accuracy.
· become aware of the benefits of a fit and healthy lifestyle by understandingthe effects of exercise on the body and the importance of developingstrength, endurance and flexibility.
· appreciate of the value of safe exercising.
At Ark Academy, we follow the "Champions" PE curriculum developed by Rising Stars in conjuction with Ark Conway Academy.
In the Reception Class, opportunities will be provided for children to be active and to develop their co-ordination, control and movement through moving and handling activities which involve the use of a range of equipment and involve different spatialexperiences. Structured lessons and opportunities for outdoor physical activity will last at least 2 hours each week.
Pupils in both KS1 and KS2 will engage in lessons of high quality PE each week. In KS1 the curriculum focuses on fundamental movement skills to develop agility, balance and co-ordination. Curriculum content includes ball skills and team games, gymnastic and dance activities.
At KS2 pupils will continue to apply and develop a range of skills and units of work which include a range of invasion, net/wall, and fielding and striking games, gymnastics, dance, athletics and swimming. Children’s experiences will also be enriched through opportunities for outdoor and adventurous activities. Additionally at Key Stage 2, children in years 3-5 attend swimming classes taught by specialist instructors at a local pool.
All PE lessons are taught by a subject-specific teacher, delivering sessions to all classes throughout the week.
To view or download a copy of our whole-school PE curriculum, click here