At AYA College, the Physical Education curriculum develops pupils’ physical competence, confidence, wellbeing and understanding of healthy lifestyles through a broad and accessible range of physical activities.

Teaching is personalised, adaptive and ambitious, with learning matched to individual starting points and needs while maintaining high expectations. Pupils are supported to develop fitness, coordination, balance, motor skills, teamwork, resilience, sportsmanship and confidence through carefully sequenced learning and appropriate challenge.

The curriculum includes individual and team activities, outdoor learning and wider sporting experiences, with opportunities to apply skills in practical and meaningful contexts. Where appropriate, learning is supported through collaboration with other professionals to ensure a holistic approach to pupils’ physical and personal development.

As pupils progress, they are supported to combine and apply movement skills with increasing control, independence and confidence, participate more effectively with others, and make informed choices about physical activity and wellbeing.

The AYA Physical Education curriculum aims to develop active, resilient and increasingly independent young people who experience success through physical activity and are equipped to maintain healthy, positive lifestyles beyond school.

Aims of the PE Curriculum

The PE curriculum at AYA College aims to:

• Promote physical fitness and encourage students to develop lifelong healthy habits.
• Support mental health by using physical activity as a tool for stress relief and emotional regulation.
• Build confidence and self-esteem through skill development and personal achievements.
• Foster teamwork, communication, and leadership skills through group activities and sports.
• Encourage students to take responsibility for their health and well-being.
• Provide opportunities for students to explore a variety of sports and physical activities.

Key Stage 3 (KS3): Building Foundations in Physical Activity

At KS3, the focus is on introducing a broad range of physical activities and sports to develop students’ motor skills, fitness levels, and understanding of the benefits of physical activity. Lessons are designed to build confidence, motivation, and a positive attitude towards exercise.

Core Areas of Study at KS3:

Physical Skills Development:

1. Fundamental movement skills: Balance, coordination, agility, and flexibility.
2. Techniques for various sports, such as passing, dribbling, striking, and defending.
3. Developing stamina, strength, and overall fitness.

Team Sports:

1. Introduction to sports such as football, basketball, netball, rugby, and volleyball.
2. Learning the rules, tactics, and roles within team games.
3. Building teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship.

Individual Activities:

1. Athletics: Running, jumping, and throwing techniques.
2. Fitness training: Circuit training, aerobic exercises, and endurance-building.
3. Gymnastics: Developing control, balance, and flexibility.

Health and Well-being:

1. Understanding the importance of exercise for physical and mental health.
2. Introduction to warm-up, cool-down, and injury prevention techniques.
3. Exploring the link between physical activity, stress relief, and emotional well-being.

Approach at KS3:

• Inclusive Activities: Lessons are adapted to meet individual abilities and needs, ensuring all students can participate and succeed.
• Encouragement and Support: Focus is placed on effort, participation, and personal improvement rather than competition.
• Varied Opportunities: Students are exposed to a wide range of activities to discover what they enjoy and excel in.

Goals at KS3:

• Develop fundamental physical skills and fitness.
• Build confidence, resilience, and a positive attitude towards physical activity.
• Encourage students to work collaboratively and support one another.

Key Stage 4 (KS4): Deepening Skills and Preparing for Adulthood

At KS4, the curriculum focuses on consolidating physical skills, improving fitness, and encouraging students to take ownership of their physical health. Students are introduced to more advanced techniques, strategies, and roles within sports and physical activities. The curriculum also prepares students for potential qualifications and post-school physical activity.

Core Areas of Study at KS4:

Skill Development and Performance:

1. Refining techniques in team and individual sports.
2. Developing strategic thinking and decision-making in competitive games.
3. Exploring advanced fitness training methods, such as interval training and resistance exercises.

Team Sports and Leadership:

1. Participating in competitive and friendly matches in sports like football, basketball, and cricket.
2. Developing leadership skills through roles such as team captain or referee.
3. Understanding the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and sportsmanship.

Health and Fitness:

1. Creating personalised fitness plans to meet individual goals.
2. Exploring the impact of lifestyle choices on fitness and health.
3. Understanding nutrition and its role in physical performance and well-being.

Alternative Sports and Activities:

1. Introducing students to less traditional activities, such as yoga, dance, or outdoor pursuits (e.g., hiking or orienteering).
2. Exploring the role of mindfulness and relaxation in physical and mental health.

Preparing for the Future:

1. Understanding the benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle into adulthood.
2. Exploring opportunities for further education, training, or careers in sports and physical fitness.

Approach at KS4:

• Personalised Learning: Students set personal goals and work on areas of interest or need, such as improving fitness or mastering a specific sport.
• Independent Thinking: Encouraging students to take responsibility for their own health and fitness choices.
• Pathway Support: Providing guidance for students interested in pursuing qualifications or careers in sports.

Goals at KS4:

• Deepen students’ understanding of physical fitness and its lifelong benefits.
• Equip students with the skills and motivation to stay active and healthy beyond school.
• Develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills through physical activity.