PE curriculum
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
In EYFS, Physical Education focuses on developing fundamental movement skills through play-based, exploratory activities. Pupils learn to run, jump, hop, balance, throw and catch using a range of equipment and imaginative contexts. Skills are taught in isolation through structured tasks (e.g. rolling and catching a ball) before being applied in simple games and movement challenges. There is a strong emphasis on developing coordination, body awareness, spatial awareness, and confidence in moving in different ways. For pupils with PMLD, the Special Olympics Motor Activity Training Programme (MATP) is used to provide sensory-rich, accessible physical activities that promote engagement, movement, and communication. Throughout EYFS, the golden thread of preparing for adulthood begins by fostering enjoyment of physical activity and building early habits for a healthy lifestyle.
Key Stage 1 (KS1)
In KS1, pupils continue to build and refine fundamental movement skills, developing agility, balance, coordination and control. Skills such as throwing, catching, kicking, striking, jumping and travelling are taught in isolation through drills and structured tasks before being applied in simple competitive and cooperative games. Pupils explore dance, gymnastics and basic invasion and striking games, learning to follow rules and work with others. For pupils with PMLD, the MATP continues to support personalised physical development. The focus remains on building confidence, resilience and enjoyment, reinforcing the importance of physical activity as part of preparing for adulthood.
Key Stage 2 (KS2)
In KS2, pupils refine their fundamental movement skills and apply them in more complex and modified game situations. Teaching progresses from isolated skill practice (e.g. passing or shooting techniques) to small-sided games where pupils learn to make decisions and adapt skills in context. Peer and group work is introduced to develop teamwork, communication and problem-solving, with pupils beginning to evaluate their own and others’ performance. Activities include invasion games, net and wall games, striking and fielding, dance, gymnastics and outdoor adventurous activities (OAA). MATP continues to support pupils with PMLD. The curriculum reinforces preparing for adulthood by encouraging responsibility, cooperation and an understanding of how physical activity supports lifelong health and wellbeing.
Key Stage 3 (KS3)
In KS3, pupils further develop technical skills and begin to explore tactics and strategies in a range of sports, including football, netball, basketball, volleyball, and outdoor adventurous activities (OAA). Skills are taught in isolation to refine technique and then applied in competitive and conditioned game situations to develop tactical awareness, decision-making and teamwork. Pupils analyse performance, understand rules and officiating, and learn how to improve through practice. Opportunities for personal challenge and resilience are embedded, with continued pathways for pupils with PMLD through MATP and adapted activities. The curriculum supports preparing for adulthood by promoting independence, self-management and an active lifestyle.
Key Stage 4 (KS4)
In KS4, pupils specialise and apply advanced skills, tactics and strategies across a range of physical activities, including team sports, individual sports, boxing, fitness activities and OAA. A strong emphasis is placed on leadership, with pupils taking roles such as coach, official, organiser and mentor. They evaluate performance, plan training programmes and understand the physical and psychological benefits of activity. Pupils with PMLD continue to access personalised physical activity through MATP and inclusive pathways. The golden thread of preparing for adulthood is explicit, equipping pupils with the knowledge, confidence and motivation to maintain healthy, active lifestyles beyond school.
Key Stage 5 (KS5)
In KS5, students consolidate performance, leadership and officiating skills, often supporting younger pupils and community sports opportunities. They explore advanced concepts in training, fitness, and performance analysis, with opportunities to gain leadership and coaching qualifications. Activities may include competitive sports, fitness training, volleyball, boxing, and OAA, alongside personalised pathways for students with PMLD using MATP. The curriculum strongly emphasises preparing for adulthood, ensuring students leave with the skills, knowledge and confidence to lead healthy and active lives, participate in sport and physical activity, and take on leadership roles in their communities.