Physical Education at St Richard’s Catholic Primary School

At St Richard’s Catholic Primary School, we are passionate about Physical Education and the important role it plays in developing the whole child. We believe that sport and physical activity should be enjoyable, inclusive and accessible to all, helping children to lead healthy, active lifestyles whilst developing confidence, resilience and a lifelong love of movement.

Our PE curriculum is carefully planned to ensure that pupils develop the knowledge, skills and physical competence needed to participate successfully in a wide range of sports and activities. Through high-quality teaching, children learn and refine fundamental movement skills, apply tactics and strategies, improve fitness and develop teamwork and leadership skills. All classes receive a minimum of two hours of curriculum PE each week, ensuring regular opportunities for physical activity and skill development.

We recognise that Physical Education contributes significantly to children's physical, social and emotional wellbeing. Through participation in sport, pupils learn the importance of determination, self-belief and resilience, whilst developing positive attitudes towards health and wellbeing. PE also promotes the British and Olympic values of teamwork, excellence, effort, fairness and respect, helping pupils to become responsible and considerate members of our community.

We are ambitious for all pupils and strive to ensure that every child experiences success in PE, regardless of their starting point. Lessons are carefully adapted to meet the needs of all learners, providing appropriate support and challenge so that every pupil can make strong progress and enjoy participation.

Beyond the curriculum, sport is a vibrant and valued part of life at St Richard’s. We offer a wide range of extra-curricular clubs and activities before and after school, reflecting the interests and needs of our pupils. These opportunities allow children to develop new skills, pursue their interests and experience the enjoyment that sport can bring.

All pupils are given opportunities to participate in sporting events throughout the year. This includes in-school competitions and festivals, as well as events organised with local schools. We believe that every child should have the opportunity to represent their school and experience the pride, teamwork and sense of achievement that comes from participation, whether in competitive or non-competitive sport.

We are proud of our strong sporting tradition and our commitment to school sport has been recognised through numerous awards and achievements for participation and success in local sporting events. These opportunities help broaden pupils’ experiences, raise aspirations and encourage a lifelong engagement with physical activity.

At St Richard’s, we value PE as an essential part of a rich and balanced education. Through high-quality teaching, competitive and non-competitive opportunities, and a culture that celebrates participation and achievement, we aim to develop confident, healthy and active young people who understand the importance of physical activity and enjoy being active throughout their lives.