Intent
At Starcross Primary School, we want all pupils, regardless of need or barrier, to develop a love of physical activity and an understanding of the importance of leading a healthy, active lifestyle. From early movement and coordination in Preschool to developing skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship in Year 6, we aim to inspire confidence, resilience, and enjoyment in physical activity.
We strive to instil positive attitudes towards physical activity, encouraging pupils to challenge themselves, persevere, and take pride in their achievements. Our PE curriculum and extra-curricular and competitive offer promotes physical competence, emotional wellbeing, and social development, helping children to understand the benefits of exercise on both body and mind.
We value inclusive, engaging, and active learning experiences. Pupils take part in a wide range of physical activities including games, dance, gymnastics, athletics, swimming, and outdoor and adventurous activities. Through a progressive curriculum, we aim to develop confident, motivated, and healthy individuals who enjoy being active.
Implementation
PE is taught across the school from Preschool to Year 6, with skills, knowledge, and physical confidence building progressively.
- Preschool and EYFS: Children develop fundamental movement skills such as running, jumping, throwing, catching, balancing, and coordination through structured play and physical activities. They build confidence, control, and enjoyment of movement.
- KS1 (Years 1–2): Pupils develop agility, balance, and coordination through games, dance, and gymnastics. They begin to understand simple rules, teamwork, and fair play while developing basic skills for sending, receiving, and controlling a ball. Swimming and water safety are introduced and developed.
- Lower KS2 (Years 3–4): Pupils refine their skills and apply them in a wider range of sports and activities. They develop strength, flexibility, stamina, and coordination while learning to work collaboratively, evaluate performance, and set personal goals. Swimming and water safety continue to be developed.
- Upper KS2 (Years 5–6): Pupils build on prior skills to play competitive games, perform complex sequences in dance and gymnastics and apply tactics and strategies. They develop leadership, cooperation, and resilience, and learn how to lead warm-ups and support others in physical activity. Children are given additional practice to meet the statutory swimming requirements if required.
Impact
By the time pupils leave Starcross, they will:
- Be physically confident and competent in a range of sports and physical activities.
- Understand the importance of regular exercise for a healthy body and mind.
- Demonstrate teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship.
- Apply skills and strategies in competitive and cooperative activities.
- Show confidence in setting personal challenges and evaluating their own performance.
- Be motivated to continue participating in physical activity and sport throughout their lives.