Keep Moving, the Sky Is the Limit
It is no secret that physical activity brings innumerable benefits, not only for health, but also for the development of the whole person. At St. Bede’s we use physical education as a fundamental tool to enable the full growth of students who, regardless of their age or abilities, have the opportunity to achieve a range of skills through a variety of sports, games and activities involving movement.
From a young age, pupils are exposed to a range of physical activities including invasión games, racquet games, creative and physical activities and health-related fitness. Sport is one of the many ways of activity into the daily lives of students thereby fostering the development of self-esteem, resilience, teamwork, cooperation, tolerance of failure and more.
We know that each student is different and equally important, so we take care to make their experience valuable and enjoyable. Sport contributes to this journey and, for many, represents an integral part of life at St. Bede’s. Accompanying our students in the discovery of skills and talents is one of the things that inspire us most on a daily basis.
Putting Education Back into the Physical
Since September there has been significant development in the vision of the PE Department. We no longer call ourselves the Sports Department, although we do continue to provide children access to a number of sporting opportunities.
Education is at the heart of what children are exposed to when they come to Physical Education lessons from ages 3 to 18. All, irrespective of ability, are given equal access to develop and achieve their potential in a range of skills.
A broad and balanced curriculum is in place to engage and add variety. Pupils are exposed to aesthetic and creative activities, invasion and racket games and health-related fitness.
Education through the Physical
There is a significant difference between education “of ” the Physical and education “through” the Physical. Both are important and must be considered equally during the pupils’ time at school.
Physical Educational specialists use sport as a vehicle to develop qualities such as self-worth, resilience, coping mechanisms eg the value of winning and indeed losing! Physical Education teachers impart foundation and fundamental movement skills in the Prep leading to more refined, specific skills as the pupils move through the Physical Education program at St Bede’s (Education of the Physical)
The Best Specialists
For the curriculum, “the educational part”, St Bede’s uses specialist practitioners who have degrees in Physical Education, be that B.Ed Hons or B.A. These teachers teach all pupils aged 3-18. It is a fundamental part of what we learn during our Higher Education training. We spend four years learning about the value and delivery of this subject. Using specialists ensures this philosophy which matches the school ethos is achieved.
We know how important sport is for all pupils interested in representing the Prep, and the College or for those attending practice to improve sports skills. For this aspect of your child’s experience coaches are also employed to ensure maximum participation. In the winter, boys have the opportunity to represent the school in hockey or football, athletics, and cross country. This is the same for the girls who also participate in netball. In the summer, the boys play cricket, the girls play rounders and all can compete in athletics.
Development from 3 to 18
For those pupils who want to improve their skills but do not necessarily aspire to represent the Prep or College, there is a varied range of sporting opportunities at lunchtime.
The highlight of the year so far has been having a handle on the development from 3 to 18. We have put together a curriculum in the Prep which feeds seamlessly through to the College. So, your child’s Physical Education journey can start at 3 and end at 18. During this time your children will be able to engage in a holistic learning experience.
We had pupils aged 6 through to 16. All were engaged, all were having fun, all were learning netball skills and some were developing coaching, communication, and leadership skills.
We would like your help as parents! Soon we will be putting together packs for parents. These will include basic equipment to aid practice fundamental skills at home. In the same way as your child will bring a reading book home, this pack will be part of their everyday development.
We will be reintroducing Sports Prefects in the Prep and College who will have a leadership role in organising and coaching at clubs.
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Here at St Bede’s we have a holistic approach to pupils’ Physical Education. It is also lovely to see the personification of the College ethos. We truly have a 3 to 18 years approach.
I have been delighted with the enthusiasm that these pupils, ranging from Prep 2 to the Lower Fifth have displayed each week. The older girls Shula, Dara, Maria and Miren have been coaching since September. This coaching has been part of their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme. Not only has it been extremely satisfying to see the skill development of the younger girls, but also the confidence, communication and leadership skills blossom within the older girls.
