Physical Education At The Levels School
We strongly believe that PE should stand for “Positive Experiences” for all students at The Levels School. In line with the wider philosophy, we look to identify and remove barriers to learning such that all students can build the confidence and motivation to engage in their PE lessons. In doing so, we create the conditions where students can develop their physical competency (including gross and fine motor skills, core strength and coordination), regardless of their previous experience, current levels of fitness or any additional need that they have that might impact on their ability to become competent movers.
Beyond the physical development of students, we use PE as an opportunity to develop a broader range of skills through a holistic approach to learning and development. Our PE staff use the whole-school trauma-informed practice to create psychological safety in lessons in addition to being a neuro-affirming department. We are aware that “traditional” PE curriculum and pedagogies can be stress-inducing rather than stress-reducing for neurodivergent students. As such, we have made a range of adjustments to our provision to enable our students to feel a sense of belonging and create an environment where they can engage in meaningful learning.
Our overall aim is to establish, develop and nurture a positive relationship with physical activity and in doing so, unlock the potential for personal growth and well-being.
Our PE Curriculum
The PE provision at The Levels School plays an integral role in the wider personal development of students. The curriculum is underpinned by developing students' physical literacy:
“the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life.”International Physical Literacy Association, 2017
In addition, we use a concept-based curriculum that focuses on developing the whole child. By including a conceptual learning objective in addition to, or instead of a performance focused one, it enables all students to succeed in their own way. Each of our lessons provide an opportunity for students to develop how they move, connect, think and feel.
Move - Physical development - movement skills, fitness, muscular and core strength, coordination
Think - Cognitive development - benefits and importance, opportunities, self-reflection and goal setting, safety and risk
Feel - Affective development - motivation, confidence, resilience, self-regulation
Connect - Social skills development - building relationships, social skills, ethics and morals, society and culture
Physical Activity Provision
At The Levels School, student’s physical activity provision is shared between a number of outlets:
Core PE
1 or 2 lessons per week. A concept-based curriculum is combined with a range of pedagogies that are carefully selected based on groups and the individuals within them to maximise engagement in lessons. We use a wide range of activities including: games, aesthetic activities, health-related exercise, athletics, outdoor adventurous activities and swimming.
Extra Curricular – Sports Festivals
We work in close partnership with Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership (SASP) to provide opportunities for our students to take part in a range of inclusive sport festivals. These include dance, athletics, cricket, outdoor activities (such as climbing, stand-up paddle boarding etc) and multi-sport events.
Extra Curricular – Fixtures
Careful consideration is given when arranging fixtures with other local schools. We work hard to match levels of experience, fitness and individual profiles of our students with any potential opponents. The focus is creating positive experiences for all participants.
Lunch Time Clubs
We offer a daily “Active Club”, which enables students to relieve stress and have fun during the school day. The club allows students to have positive interactions with others out of lesson time and helps to facilitate play. Lunch time activities are student directed with the member of staff facilitating informal games or activities.
Enrichment
We offer a range of alternative experiences in Enrichment, allowing students to engage in more physical activities beyond the Core PE provision. These can provide a more “sport” focus opportunity such as handball, T1 Rugby or specialist cricket coaching. The program also provides alternative activities to encourage a wider range of students to find activities that are meaningful to them e.g. wellbeing walks, boxing fitness, parkour, horse riding and swimming.
Level 1-2 Sport Science
At The Levels School, students can choose to follow the Cambridge Nationals Sports Science qualification at Key Stage 4. This qualification is offered due to its accessible assessment methods and range of interesting modules. Course content will be delivered via a mix of classroom based and applied practical lessons.
Students will study 3 units:
Unit R180: Reducing the risk of sports injuries and dealing with common medical conditions.
Unit R181: Applying the principles of training: fitness and how it affects skill performance.
Unit R182: The body’s response to physical activity and how technology informs this.
Students will also develop their leadership skills, improve their sports performance and increase their fitness levels.
External Links
| PE With Joe | eChalk |
| Youth Sport Trust | NHS Activities |
Holiday Activities
If you're looking to support your child's sports studies at home, try the following activities:
Join external sports clubs, such as Ashcott Football Club.
Spend time enjoying the outdoors, such as going for a walk or playing outside.
Engage in active play, such as playing football or tag.
Play active games on the Wii.
Watching and celebrating sports events, such as the Olympics. If parents are confident doing so, they can discuss the rules of the game or current topical issues around sports.
