PE: Key Stage 3 and 4

Physical Education Department Overview

To promote physical skills, physical development and a knowledge of the body in action, and provide opportunities for pupils to be creative, competitive and to build resilience, whilst developing positive attitudes towards active and healthy lifestyles.

Our vision is concerned with not only enhanced learning and provision within Physical Education and School Sport itself, but also, as we have seen, on the unique role our subject can play as a template and tool for the development of whole school practice, leading to whole school improvement - Improved Attitudes to learning; Higher Attainment across the curriculum; Improved Attendance; Improved Behaviour and Enhanced Leadership skills.

Key Stage 3 (KS3)

Students are taught in broad ‘ability’ sets – with movement between groups on teachers’ discretion. Activities are delivered on a 5-week rotation – Rugby, Basketball, Table Tennis, Football, Athletics, Cricket, Rounders/Softball. These weeks are scheduled to facilitate our enrichment program and support our teams in fixtures, also to deliver competition via the Inter House competitions and consideration is needed with regards to facilities – usage of the Sports Hall for examinations throughout the year.

At the end of the Key Stage, students are given advice regarding their suitability for success in GCSE PE.

Objectives:

Develop fundamental movement skills and physical literacy.
Encourage teamwork, cooperation, and fair play.
Introduce a variety of sports and physical activities to broaden students’ experiences.

Inspiration and Challenge:

Variety of Activities: Offering a diverse range of sports, from traditional team games like football and rugby to individual pursuits like table tennis and athletics, to keep students engaged and motivated.
Skill Development: Focusing on the development of core skills through progressive challenges that cater to different ability levels.
Positive Environment: Creating a supportive atmosphere where effort and improvement are celebrated, fostering a growth mindset.

Key Stage 4 (KS4)

Students who have opted for GCSE PE are taught the theory component following the AQA specification during timetabled option block lessons. The practical component is delivered and assessed via the ‘Core PE lessons’ and during enrichment opportunities and via the PE residential in Year 10. All students in core PE will have the opportunity to choose activities, dependent upon the availability of Sports Hall and the anticipated weather. Activities will change each half term, and will include Fitness Suite, Table tennis, football, basketball, cricket, rounders, and softball. A more student-led / ‘Games for Understanding’ approach may be implemented during these lessons, and an increased emphasis on students taking on leadership, officiating, and coaching roles.

Objectives:

Enhance advanced skills and tactical understanding in various sports.
Promote lifelong fitness habits and knowledge of health-related fitness.
Prepare students for potential qualifications in physical education and sports.

Inspiration and Challenge:

Personalised Learning: Tailoring activities to individual interests and abilities, offering pathways for both competitive and recreational participation.
Leadership Opportunities: Encouraging students to take on leadership roles, such as coaching or officiating, to build confidence and responsibility.
Fitness for Life: Emphasizing the importance of fitness and well-being beyond school, with activities that students can continue into adulthood.