PE at Pendle

Subject Leader: Nathaniel Taylor

Physical Education at Pendle

At Pendle, our aim is to nurture and develop the physical literacy of all young children. We are committed to fostering the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge, and understanding that children need to value and take responsibility for lifelong participation in physical activity.

PE is delivered through the Lancashire PE Scheme of Work, which provides a clear progression of skills and understanding across all key stages. In the Foundation Stage, children begin developing fundamental movement skills that form the building blocks for future physical learning. As they progress through school, they engage in increasingly challenging activities that promote both physical development and a love for being active.

During the winter months, when outdoor PE can be limited, our Key Stage 2 classes benefit from weekly sessions at Roefield Leisure Centre, where they enjoy high-quality PE lessons in a large, well-equipped sports hall. Children in Year 3 also attend swimming sessions at Roefield Leisure Centre throughout the year to develop their swimming skills and work towards meeting the national curriculum requirements for swimming and water safety.

We make full use of our school grounds to enhance PE lessons and promote physical activity throughout the day. Recent investments in outdoor equipment—including a Tyre Park, Trim Trail, and outdoor gym apparatus—have significantly increased opportunities for active play and structured physical learning.

Our strong community links further enrich our PE provision. Children have access to a wide range of local sporting facilities, including tennis courts, multi-sport artificial pitches, and a cricket field, which are used for lessons, clubs, and school events.

Throughout the year, we offer a wide range of extra-curricular sports clubs, such as fencing, netball, archery, golf, dance, and cricket, to engage as many children as possible in physical activity and help them discover new interests. We regularly consult with our pupils throughout the year to help shape our after-school club offer, ensuring that their interests and preferences are reflected in the opportunities we provide.

We provide regular opportunities for children to represent Pendle in both fun and competitive environments, including inter-school festivals, friendly matches, and competitive tournaments. These experiences help to build teamwork, resilience, and a sense of pride in representing their school.

We also celebrate major sporting events through whole-school activities. For example, our themed ‘Biggest ever Girls' Football Session’ brought the excitement of international football into the classroom and playground, creating a memorable and inclusive experience for all.

Finally, we provide opportunities for outdoor adventure and residential experiences, including a Year 6 residential trip, helping children to build resilience, teamwork, and a love for the outdoors.