Physical Education

Physical Education is offered at GCSE level as well as A level.  The A/AS course is extremely varied; it is academically exciting and challenging but there is also a strong practical emphasis.

In the Lower School, Physical Education is a core element of a balanced education for children and contributes towards the integrated development of mind and body.  It builds self-confidence and self-esteem, enhances physical, social and cognitive development and improves academic achievement.  By encouraging qualities such as perseverance, initiative and independence pupils experience a feeling of success and enjoyment.  Physical Education encourages children to acquire knowledge of the relationship between care of the body, well-being and an active and healthy lifestyle.

Departmental Aims

  1. To develop general physical fitness by maintaining and increasing speed, flexibility, muscular strength, muscular endurance and aerobic fitness.
  2. To develop an understanding of the importance of exercise in the pursuit of a healthy active lifestyle.
  3. To promote an understanding of physical and mental well-being through an appreciation of stress, rest and relaxation.
  4. To provide the opportunity to be inventive and creative in physical activities.
  5. To promote an awareness of, and an ability to appreciate the aesthetic qualities of movement.
  6. To develop an ability to observe, analyse and judge the performance of self and peers in physical situations.
  7. To develop physical literacy through an acquisition of those levels of skill necessary for efficient body movement and control.
  8. To develop understanding and appreciation of the purposes, forms and conventions of a selection of physical activities.
  9. To develop an appreciation of the concepts of fair play, honest competition and good sportsmanship.
  10. To develop the capacity to maintain interest and to persevere in order to achieve success.
  11. To prepare each student to be able to participate fully in the recreational and leisure opportunities offered outside the school environment.
  12. To develop leadership skills and foster qualities of co-operation, tolerance, consideration, trust and responsibility when faced with group and team problem-solving tasks.