Our vision for PE

At St. Paul's, we are passionate that our pupils should develop spiritually, academically and in body. We aim for all children to flourish in and out of the classroom; for pupils to develop resilience and believe in their future possibilities; for talents to be nurtured ensuring that pupils achieve their God-given potential.

Curriculum Intent
At St. Paul’s C of E Primary School we believe that Physical Education, delivered safely and in a supportive environment, is essential to ensure that children attain optimum physical and emotional development. The lessons in good health will be embedded so that our pupils continue to follow them beyond school and into adulthood. 

High-quality teaching and learning opportunities delivered by sports specialists (Mr Bass and Mr Vasey) as well as class teachers will inspire all children to succeed in physical education. Our children will learn life skills needed to keep them safe, healthy and to have fun including swimming, fitness and competitive sports. 

Other values and disciples that our PE curriculum promotes include:

• Skills in co-operation and collaboration to be an effective team
• Understanding fairness and equity of play
• Skills in self-reflection to assess their own and others’ performance
• Positive self-esteem
• Respect for others

Curriculum Implementation

Our curriculum aims to improve the wellbeing and fitness of all children at St. Paul’s as well as giving pupils opportunities to enjoy competing in sports. We aim to ensure that children are active for 30 minutes per day in school (in line with the government’s 60 active minutes campaign). On days where PE is not taught, pupils will complete the daily mile or a Fitter Future activity.

Pupils participate in two high-quality hours of PE each week. One hour is taught by a sports specialist and one hour by the class teacher. A dance specialist also teaches half an hour of dance to pupils in Years 1-6 for half a term each year. 

Skill areas (gymnastics, dance, OAA, invasion games, net and wall games and striking and fielding games) are taught annually or within phase year groups ensuring a progression of knowledge and skills. Some aspects of Outdoor Adventurous Activities will take place on school trips and residentials. Swimming is taught in Year 4 and Year 5 where pupils may have some experience in swimming already and have the time for ‘catch up’ sessions in Years 6 if needed.  All resources and equipment needed for PE lessons are used in accordance with ‘Safe Practice in PE’ (AfPE).

Pupils are encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities including lunchtime clubs run by members of the St. Paul’s Sports Crew. Pupils are invited to attend competitive sporting events within the local area organised by the Watford and Three Rivers School Sports Partnership. This inclusive approach encourages both physical development but positive mental well-being. In Years 5 and 6, some pupils will be selected to be sports leaders. They attend training to promote sports within the school and may lead games for other year groups.

Curriculum Impact

By the end of Year 6, the requirements of the National Curriculum are fully met and pupils are equipped to compete in age-appropriate levels of the different sports (see curriculum map).

Our pupils will be motivated to participate in a variety of sports through quality teaching that is engaging and fun.

They will learn to take responsibility for their own health and fitness and be equipped with the necessary skills to enjoy competing in sports.

Lessons in good health will be continued in their journey to secondary school and into adult life.

Sports opportunities 2024

Year 5 and 6 Athletics - February 2022

Year 5 and 6 had athletics workshops led by the School Sports Partnership this week. They developed their running, throwing, catching, agility and coordination skills through a variety of activities. A huge well done to the children for their enthusiasm and engagement with the different challenges.

School Sports Partnership - SSP

As well as experiencing a comprehensive PE curriculum, St. Paul's pupils have opportunities to take part in many sporting events outside of school. We are continuing our membership of The Three Rivers and Watford School Sports Partnership so our pupils can look forward to taking part in a variety of competitions and festivals during the academic year.