Physical Education
Physical Education at Penwortham Primary School
At Penwortham Primary School, our Physical Education curriculum aims to develop pupils’ physical competence, confidence and enjoyment of physical activity. We want pupils to lead active, healthy lives, develop resilience and teamwork, and understand the importance of physical wellbeing for both body and mind.
Our approach to Physical Education reflects our school values of Aspire, Belong, Care and Discover, supporting pupils to challenge themselves, work collaboratively and develop positive attitudes that extend beyond sport and into everyday life.
Our Physical Education Curriculum – Intent
Our Physical Education curriculum is designed to:
develop pupils’ physical skills, coordination and control
promote healthy, active lifestyles and positive wellbeing
build resilience, confidence and perseverance
encourage teamwork, leadership and sportsmanship
ensure pupils experience a broad and balanced range of physical activities
We aim for all pupils to feel confident and motivated to participate in physical activity, regardless of starting point.
Implementation
Our Physical Education Journey
Physical Education begins in EYFS through structured movement, dance and play-based activities that develop fundamental movement skills, balance, coordination and confidence.
As pupils move through school, learning is carefully sequenced to build on prior skills. In Key Stage 1, pupils develop fundamental skills through games, gymnastics and dance. In Key Stage 2, pupils apply these skills in a wider range of sports and activities, including athletics, swimming, invasion games, net and wall games and outdoor activities.
Pupils develop their understanding of:
how to move with control, balance and coordination
teamwork, cooperation and fair play
resilience and perseverance
how physical activity supports health and wellbeing
How Physical Education Is Taught
Physical Education is taught through two timetabled lessons each week, using the Get Set 4 PE programme, which ensures clear progression and coverage of the National Curriculum.
Learning is enhanced through:
specialist coaching from South Ribble Active Lives
competitive and collaborative sporting opportunities
swimming lessons for pupils in Years 3 and 4
daily opportunities for physical activity, including active playtimes and movement breaks
Playtimes are designed to support physical and mental wellbeing, offering a range of active games alongside quieter spaces for calm and social interaction.
Lessons are inclusive and adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with SEND, ensuring everyone can participate and succeed.
Impact
As a result of our Physical Education curriculum, pupils:
develop confidence, resilience and enjoyment in physical activity
demonstrate improved physical skills and coordination
understand the importance of healthy, active lifestyles
work effectively as part of a team and show respect for others
show perseverance and pride in their personal achievements
By the time pupils leave Penwortham Primary School, they have the skills, knowledge and positive attitudes needed to continue participating in physical activity and sport beyond primary school
The Physical Education curriculum at Penwortham Primary School is regularly reviewed to ensure it meets the needs of all pupils and promotes positive attitudes towards physical activity and wellbeing.
Through monitoring lessons, reviewing assessment information and gathering pupil voice, leaders ensure that pupils are developing physical competence, confidence and resilience. Staff are supported to deliver high-quality PE through the use of a clear curriculum structure and specialist coaching, ensuring consistency and progression across the school.
As a result, pupils demonstrate improved physical skills, increased confidence and a positive attitude towards participation. Pupils are enthusiastic about PE, engage well in lessons and understand the importance of staying active for their physical and mental wellbeing.
Swimming Provision
At Penwortham Primary School, swimming is an important part of our Physical Education curriculum. Pupils in Year 3 access weekly swimming lessons at a local swimming pool as part of their curriculum entitlement.
Our aim is for all pupils to:
swim competently, confidently and proficiently over a distance of at least 25 metres
use a range of strokes effectively
perform safe self-rescue in different water-based situations
Pupils’ progress is monitored, and additional support or opportunities are considered for those who do not yet meet expected standards. Swimming provision supports pupils’ physical development, confidence and safety awareness.
Physical Education Enrichment and Wider Opportunities
Physical Education at Penwortham Primary School is enriched through a wide range of additional opportunities that extend learning beyond the curriculum.
Pupils are able to take part in:
a variety of extra-curricular sports clubs across the year
inter-school competitions and festivals organised through South Ribble Active Lives and the School Games programme
intra-school competitions, including half-termly house events
leadership opportunities such as Sports Leaders and Play Leaders
swimming provision in Year 3 to develop water confidence and swimming ability
These opportunities help pupils to develop teamwork, leadership, resilience and sportsmanship, while encouraging a lifelong enjoyment of physical activity. Enrichment opportunities ensure all pupils, including those less confident in PE, can experience success and develop positive attitudes towards sport and physical activity.
Inclusion and SEND in Physical Education
Physical Education at Penwortham Primary School is inclusive and accessible to all pupils. Lessons are adapted to ensure that every child can participate fully and experience success.
Teachers use a range of strategies to support pupils with SEND, including:
differentiated tasks and equipment
adapted rules and activities
additional adult support where appropriate
clear modelling and structured routines
Our inclusive approach ensures that all pupils develop physical confidence, resilience and enjoyment, while promoting positive attitudes towards physical activity and wellbeing.
Active Lifestyles and Wellbeing
Physical activity plays a key role in supporting pupils’ physical, mental and emotional wellbeing at Penwortham Primary School.
In addition to timetabled PE lessons, pupils benefit from:
daily opportunities for physical activity
active and inclusive playtimes supported by OPAL principles
movement breaks during the school day
opportunities to engage in community physical activity
Penwortham Primary School is proud to be a parkrun school, encouraging pupils and families to engage in regular physical activity beyond the school day. This supports the development of healthy habits and promotes lifelong participation in physical activity.
Awards and Recognition – Physical Education
Penwortham Primary School has been awarded the Platinum School Games Mark (2024–2025) in recognition of its commitment to high-quality Physical Education, inclusive participation and competitive sport.
This award reflects:
strong participation rates across the school
a wide range of sporting opportunities
effective leadership and pupil involvement
a clear commitment to inclusion and personal development
The award confirms the positive impact of Physical Education and sport on pupils’ confidence, wellbeing and engagement.
Physical Education in Action
Here’s what Physical Education looks like at our school...
