Physical Education (PE) and Sport are an integral part of our school identify. Through high quality PE lessons, we aim to develop physical literacy and sporting competency, alongside essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience, so that our students fulfil their potential both on the pitch and in the classroom.
Primary School
Foundation Stage
The PE curriculum begins in the Foundation Stage, focusing on fundamental movements, helping students develop body control, balance, and coordination. Activities are designed to enhance their ability to move confidently, develop coordination, and begin working with others in a physical setting.
Key Stage 1 (Year 1 & Year 2)
At Key Stage 1, students begin to engage in invasion and evasion games through various tagging activities. These games help refine their agility, spatial awareness, and decision-making skills. They also learn the importance of boundaries and following rules, fostering an understanding of fair play and teamwork.
Key Stage 2 (Year 3 – Year 6)
At Key Stage 2, students build on their foundational skills and develop sport-specific abilities in games such as football, netball, and basketball. They gain a deeper understanding of rules and are introduced to basic tactics and strategies to enhance their performance. The curriculum encourages critical thinking, teamwork, and the ability to apply learned skills in game situations.
Primary Swimming Curriculum
Swimming is a significant part of our primary PE curriculum, aiming to build water confidence, competency and nurture excellence across all key stages:
Foundation Stage: Students develop confidence in the water by submerging their heads and traveling independently (swimming, running, walking, hopping) over at least 5 metres.
Key Stage 1: Students can swim on both their front and back, using an arm movement that extends over the water. They can complete a full length of the pool with or without a float. They demonstrate confidence when jumping into deep water and climbing out independently.
Key Stage 2: Students can swim three strokes using a recognised technique. They are beginning to swim distances beyond 25 metres while maintaining proper form. They understand how to stay safe in the water and recognise different ways to seek support when needed. Students work towards improving their swimming by setting personal targets, using their own knowledge, and collaborating with peers for support. They can make decisions and follow guidelines to assist others in water-related emergencies. Additionally, they start to connect swimming with overall fitness, learning how to use it to build stamina and endurance.
Secondary School
Key Stage 3 (Year 7 – Year 9)
At Key Stage 3, students enhance their skills and tactical awareness in different sports, using strategic thinking to gain an advantage over opponents. Alongside practical performance, they explore human anatomy and body systems, understanding their impact and importance on physical activity and sports performance. They also develop the knowledge to create and sustain fitness programmes, promoting long-term health and well-being. Additionally, students take on officiating and leadership responsibilities, strengthening their communication, decision-making, and teamwork skills.
Key Stage 4 (Year 10 – Year 11)
At Key Stage 4, there is student-centred approach which allows individuals flexibility to select a pathway that best suits their preferences. Those who are passionate about competitive sports can engage in activities such as basketball or football. Alternatively, students who prefer a more fitness-focused experience can participate in activities like weight training, yoga, or other recreational-based exercises.
Students also have the option to study Edexcel GCSE PE (1PE0). It is comprised of three elements:
Theory (60%) – students are assessed in two examinations: fitness and body systems; and health and performance.
Practical performance (30%) – students are assessed in three sports which are each worth 10% of their final grade. They are assessed in one individual sport, one team sport and one free choice activity which can be either be an individual or team sport.
Personal exercise programme (10%) – students analyse their sports performance and create a training programme designed to improve any identified weaknesses.
Sixth Form
At Sixth Form, students have the option to study A-Level AQA PE (7582) and Pearson BTEC Internation Level 3 Sport.
A Level: Students are assessed in two examinations worth 70% of the final grade. Practical assessment in one sport, followed by a written analysis of performance is worth 30%.
BTEC Internation Level 3 Sport: Students are assessed through written assignments instead of examinations. The mark for each unit is combined to assign an overall grade.
Both courses, whilst assessed differently, provide an excellent base for a university degree in sports science, sports management, healthcare, or exercise and health.
