PE at Co-op Academy Medlock

 

'The sky has no limits. Neither should you.'

Usain Bolt

 

Intent

Physical Education (PE) at Co-op Academy Medlock plays a vital role in supporting the physical, social, and emotional development of every pupil. We believe that all children should have the opportunity to enjoy physical activity, develop key movement skills, and build confidence in their own abilities. Our curriculum is designed to foster positive attitudes towards health, fitness, and teamwork, empowering pupils to lead active and healthy lifestyles both now and in the future.

We aim to develop pupils’ competence across a broad range of physical skills, including locomotion, balance, coordination, object control, and tactical understanding. Pupils learn to apply these skills in increasingly challenging situations, developing agility, resilience, and perseverance. They experience competitive and collaborative activities that promote teamwork, respect, and fairness.

Aligned with the National Curriculum for PE and the EYFS prime area of physical development, our curriculum ensures every child builds secure knowledge of rules, techniques, and strategies (declarative knowledge), alongside the ability to apply these fluently in practice (procedural knowledge). We believe that every child — regardless of ability — should feel included, supported, and challenged. Adaptations are carefully embedded to ensure accessibility for all learners, including those with SEND or physical needs.

Above all, we want pupils to discover enjoyment and pride through physical activity. Whether competing, performing, or simply participating for pleasure, pupils are encouraged to recognise the importance of movement for both physical health and emotional wellbeing. Our goal is for children to leave us as confident, responsible, and physically literate individuals who understand the value of lifelong activity.

Implementation

Our PE curriculum is delivered in partnership with UK Sports Ltd, providing high-quality teaching through specialist sports coaches. Lessons are structured using detailed long- and medium-term plans developed through the PE Hub, and are continuously reviewed to meet the needs of our pupils. Each unit is carefully sequenced so that pupils build on previous knowledge, refine techniques, and deepen tactical understanding over time.

In the Early Years, physical development is embedded through continuous provision and adult-led activities. Pupils develop core strength, fine and gross motor control, and coordination through purposeful play and outdoor exploration. They are introduced to simple rules, turn taking, and spatial awareness — laying the foundations for structured PE in Key Stage 1.

Throughout Key Stages 1 and 2, pupils participate in a wide range of activities, including invasion games, gymnastics, dance, athletics, and outdoor and adventurous challenges. Explicit vocabulary teaching and clear modelling support pupils in understanding both the “what” and the “how” of movement. Pupils are encouraged to observe, evaluate, and improve their own and others’ performances, developing critical thinking alongside physical proficiency.

Impact

Assessment is formative and ongoing, with key skills reviewed at the end of each teaching block. Teachers track progress against clearly defined criteria to ensure pupils are secure before moving on. Opportunities for leadership, peer support, and self-reflection are embedded throughout lessons.

Through PE, pupils develop physical competence, confidence, and character. They demonstrate increasing control, coordination, and strategic awareness across a range of contexts. Just as importantly, they learn to communicate, collaborate, and show respect — whether as a teammate, competitor, or audience member.

By revisiting key movement patterns and tactical ideas over time, pupils commit learning to long-term memory and apply it with increasing independence. They make informed decisions about health, exercise, and wellbeing, understanding the impact of physical activity on the body and mind.

Our pupils leave Co-op Academy Medlock not only as skilled movers but as motivated and responsible individuals who recognise the value of being active.

PE Beyond the Lesson

Physical activity extends far beyond the sports hall. At breaktimes and lunchtimes, children are encouraged to be active through structured games, fitness challenges, and equipment-led play led by trained staff. In Early Years, continuous provision provides daily opportunities for climbing, balancing, and outdoor exploration, supporting physical development in natural and meaningful ways.

We offer a range of after-school clubs and sports enrichment activities, enabling pupils to apply and deepen their skills in real-life competitive contexts. Friendly fixtures and inter-school competitions help pupils experience teamwork, sportsmanship, and resilience in action. Leadership opportunities — such as sports leaders and activity helpers — allow pupils to take responsibility and support younger peers.

Through strong links with Science, pupils explore the human body, health, and nutrition, while PSHE reinforces discussions around wellbeing, substance misuse, and healthy lifestyle choices. Together, these strands ensure that pupils understand not only how to be active, but why it matters.