The Physical Education department aim to develop independent, active young people by encouraging them in purposeful physical activity. We hope to develop physical competence in a range of activities and generally promote the importance of physical development. Students should experience the values and benefits of participation through key stage three, four, five and hopefully beyond. We hope students develop an appreciation of skillful and creative performance across all areas of activity. As well as physical abilities, physical education can also contribute to the development of self esteem and confidence, inter-personal skills, commitment, fairness, enthusiasm and problem solving skills.
Our philosophy:
through equality of opportunity to explore and pursue physical activities in a ‘Sport for All’ approach
to encourage students to ‘do their best’ within the realms of safety
to provide those with special interests and abilities the opportunity
to develop further to promote respect for their own and others efforts, successes and failures
to promote good manners, fair play, high standards of kit, self discipline and co-operation
to encourage an awareness of the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle
All students take part in competitive matches when representing their for
m in inter-house tournaments in major games activities. Whole school events include sports day (athletics and tug-of-war), inter-house cross country and inter-house rowing. We encourage students across all key stages to attend extra-curricular clubs to further their skill acqusition and learning. Although students at these clubs form the basis for school teams, our sport for all philosophy ensures that all committed and enthusiastic students are able to represent the school.
Key Stage 3: During key stage 3 students receive two 1hr lessons per week. Students study a broad, balanced curriculum, incorporating the general requirements of the national curriculum for physical education. Students pursue four areas of activity: games (including rugby, netball, hockey, football, badminton, table-tennis, tennis, volleyball, cricket, rounders, softball), gymnastic activities, dance and athletic activities.
Key Stage 4: Students in key stage 4 receive one 90 minute lesson per week. Lessons build on the skills developed at key stage 3 and increase students knowledge and understanding as well as their physical ability. Students are given 9 module choices throughout the two years and are encouraged to pick from a range of team games, individual sports and body management activities. Options include rugby, netball, gymnastics, fitness, table tennis, volleyball, football, hockey, softball, rounders, badminton, dance, aerobics and athletics.
Key Stage 5: Physical Education in the 6th form is a popular and much needed break from academic study. All yr12 students undertake at least one hour of activity per week, timetabled on a Wednesday afternoon. Students are given a real breadth of choice and are encouarged to lead a healthy and active lifestyle. 6th form sports teams also play regular fixtures against local and national opposition and take part in league and cup competitions. More information can be found in the school website. Options include: badminton, fitness, squash, golf, volleyball, yoga, dance, fencing, cricket, athletics, softball, rounders, netball (2 teams), rugby (2 teams), hockey and football (3 teams).