At Newton Bluecoat Church of England Primary School, Physical Education (PE) plays a vital role in supporting the development of the whole child — body, mind and spirit. Through PE and physical activity, we encourage children to flourish, develop confidence and resilience, and experience joy through movement.

We work in partnership with parents and carers to support children in leading active, healthy lifestyles both in school and at home.

Our PE curriculum aims to ensure that all pupils:

• Develop fundamental movement skills
• Improve coordination, balance, agility and control
• Participate in individual and team activities
• Understand the importance of health and fitness
• Learn to cooperate, show respect and demonstrate sportsmanship

PE lessons promote our Christian values by encouraging kindness, fairness, perseverance, respect and teamwork, ensuring every child feels valued and included.

Supporting Physical Activity at Home

Parents and carers play a vital role in helping children to stay active. Children are encouraged to take part in at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day, which can be achieved through short, enjoyable activities.

Simple Ways to Support at Home

• Walking, cycling or scooting
• Playing in the garden, park or local outdoor spaces
• Dancing, yoga or movement games indoors
• Ball games using any size or type of ball
• Active family games and challenges

These activities help reinforce the skills children learn in PE and build confidence through regular practice.

How to Support by Age Group

Early Years (Nursery & Reception)

Children develop movement through play:

• Running, jumping, hopping and balancing
• Throwing, rolling and catching
• Climbing, crawling and outdoor exploration
• Action games such as “Simon Says”

Focus on enjoyment and praise effort to build confidence.

Key Stage 1 (Years 1 & 2)

Children build coordination and control:

• Throwing and catching with two hands
• Kicking and simple ball games
• Balance challenges and movement routines
• Dance and rhythm activities

Short, fun activities help maintain enthusiasm.

Lower Key Stage 2 (Years 3 & 4)

Children develop skills and teamwork:

• Catching with one hand
• Small team games and sports skills
• Skipping and simple fitness challenges
• Creating short dance or movement sequences

Encourage children to explain rules and reflect on performance.

Upper Key Stage 2 (Years 5 & 6)

Children focus on refining skills and fitness:

• Sport-specific skills and techniques
• Fitness circuits and challenges
• Leadership roles such as organising games
• Goal setting and self-improvement

Support children in recognising effort, perseverance and progress.

 

Extra - Curricular Sporting Clubs

We offer a variety of clubs across the year, which may include:

• Team sports
• Dance and movement
• Fitness and games clubs
• Skill-based and inclusive activities

All clubs are designed to be inclusive, enjoyable and accessible, allowing children of all abilities to participate and thrive. We strongly encourage children to join extracurricular activities to develop skills, friendships and confidence.

PE Kit and Readiness for Learning

Parents and carers can support PE by ensuring:

• Correct PE kit is in school on PE days
• Long hair is tied back and jewellery is removed
• Children are encouraged to be independent when changing (age appropriate)

Promoting Healthy, Active Lifestyles

PE also supports learning about:

• The importance of regular exercise
• Healthy eating choices
• Good sleep routines
• Positive mental wellbeing

Children benefit greatly when schools and families work together to model and promote healthy, active lifestyles.