Move. Compete. Achieve.

PE at Elburton is about more than competitive sport. Children develop physical competence and confidence while learning about teamwork, resilience, leadership, decision-making and fair play. We want every child to discover ways of being active that they can enjoy throughout life.

Why this subject matters

Physical education supports physical health, wellbeing, confidence and social development. It helps children develop movement competence while learning to cooperate, compete appropriately, respond to challenge and make decisions under pressure. Through PE, children learn the value of perseverance, self-discipline and healthy lifestyles.

What children learn

Children develop fundamental movement skills and apply them through:

• Games and sports
• Gymnastics
• Dance
• Athletics
• Outdoor and adventurous activities
• Swimming (where applicable)

They also learn about teamwork, rules, tactics, leadership, personal improvement and healthy participation.

How knowledge develops

Skills are revisited in increasingly demanding contexts so that children move from basic control towards fluency, decision-making and tactical awareness.

Physical competence, confidence and understanding develop together, enabling children to participate successfully in a wide range of physical activities.

What this looks like at Elburton

Lessons are active and purposeful, with clear teaching of skills followed by opportunities to practise and apply them.

Children are expected to reflect on performance, support others, solve physical challenges and take increasing responsibility for their learning. They learn how to improve their own performance and contribute positively as teammates, leaders and participants.

How we know children are learning

Teachers assess through observation of movement, decision-making, application and understanding.

Progress is judged against what children can do, apply and explain, rather than simply whether they win or perform fastest. Assessment focuses on developing physical competence, confidence and understanding over time.

Supporting Learning at Home

You can support your child's physical development by:

• Helping them be active regularly in ways they enjoy.
• Walking, cycling, swimming, playground games, dancing and family sports all count.
• Encouraging children to try new activities and develop confidence.
• Promoting healthy eating and positive lifestyle habits.
• Celebrating persistence, improvement and enjoyment, as well as performance.

Local opportunities such as parks, beaches, leisure centres, cycling routes and outdoor spaces provide excellent ways to stay active together as a family.

PE in Action

Physical activity helps children feel healthy, confident and ready to learn. Through PE, pupils learn how to challenge themselves, work collaboratively and lead active lives. By the time they leave Elburton, we want children to be confident, resilient and motivated individuals who understand the importance of physical activity and wellbeing both now and in the future.