Physical Education is a core component of the primary school curriculum. The primary years are perhaps the most significant period for motor development in children, a time during which basic movement competencies are developed and which offers the first opportunity for embedding physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. This is the first comprehensive introduction to the teaching of PE in the primary school to be written exclusively by primary PE specialists, with primary school teaching experience.

The book highlights the importance of PE in the primary curriculum and the key issues facing primary teachers today, such as inclusion, training needs and the development of creativity. Central to the book are core chapters that examine each functional area common to many primary PE syllabi – including games, dance, gymnastics, athletics and outdoor learning – and give clear, practical guidance on how to teach each topic. Rooted throughout in sound theory and the latest evidence and research, this book is essential reading for all students, trainee teachers and qualified teachers looking to understand and develop their professional practice in primary Physical Education.

Contents

SECTION 1: Introducing Primary Physical Education 1. Surveying the Landscape of Primary Physical Education - GERALD GRIGGS 2. The Importance of Primary Physical Education - IAN PICKUP 3. The Challenges and Potential within Primary Physical Education DOMINIC HAYDN – DAVIES 4. The Future of Primary Physical Education: A 3-14 Developmental and Connected Curriculum - MIKE JESS SECTION 2: Curriculum 5. The Development of the Physical Education Curriculum in Primary Schools in the United Kingdom - SUE CHEDZOY 6. They can’t catch so what’s the point in teaching them to play a game? Teaching Games in the Primary School - GAVIN WARD 7. Gymnastic activities in the primary years - the foundation of learning to move with enhanced confidence, competence and imagination - LAE 8. Dance: Teaching and learning possibilities within the early years and primary school context - RACHAEL JEFFERSON-BUCHANAN 9. Getting athletics off the track, out the sack and ‘back on track’ - GERALD GRIGGS 10. From Desks to Dens - Outdoor and Adventurous Activities- NALDA WAINWRIGHT SECTION 3: Issues in primary Physical Education 11. Addressing training and development needs in primary Physical Education - JEANNE KEAY and JON SPENCE 12. Towards a more inclusive provision - RICHARD MEDCALF 13. Placing an importance on health and physical activity - KRISTY HOWELLS 14. There is always another way! Creative Physical Education - JIM LAVIN

Author Bio

Gerald Griggs is Senior Lecturer in Physical Education and Sports Studies at the University of Wolverhampton, UK. Dr Griggs trained as a primary teacher with a specialism in physical education, before teaching in several primary schools in the UK. He is a member of the British Educational Research Association, including the Spe...