Physical Activity v's Physical Education
There is a HUGE educational difference between Physical ACTIVITY and Physical EDUCATION. As soon as I get a minute I will tell you all about it! But for now, I have put on a few useful links that may help you decide for yourself.
The important thing to remember is that EDUCATION is all about the underlying pedagogy and significant aspects of learning whereas ACTIVITY can, and often is, all about the doing it 'just because'. There is ultimately no shame is sometimes just doing something for the sake, or the enjoyment factor. However, as teachers in charge of providing avenues to shape and develop the body and minds of future generations, it's important to have a handle on what sets Physical Education apart from Physical Activity.
The important thing to remember is that EDUCATION is all about the underlying pedagogy and significant aspects of learning whereas ACTIVITY can, and often is, all about the doing it 'just because'. There is ultimately no shame is sometimes just doing something for the sake, or the enjoyment factor. However, as teachers in charge of providing avenues to shape and develop the body and minds of future generations, it's important to have a handle on what sets Physical Education apart from Physical Activity.
Active Schools and Sports Development
Just as we don't expect you to be a sports coach, we dont expect Active schools and Sports Development officers to be teachers!!! Both these services are doing a great job of promoting and providing pathways for PHYSICAL ACTIVITY. A great physical education programme should be complimented with great Active Schools and Sports Development involvement both before and after school. However, its important that we dont replace our PE with either of these services. PHYSICAL EDUCATION should always be delivered during curriculum time by a teacher in order that the pedagogy we hold in such high esteem remains a focus. Thus making each lesson purposeful and fun with solid links to the curriculum and the broad general education for all.
As a head teacher or classroom teacher, you need to remember that bringing in a sports coach or active schools co-ordinator to deliver an activity block DOES NOT count towards your 2 hours of quality PE that week. Any coaching or activity sessions delivered by a non-teacher can only be offered OVER and ABOVE or in ADDITION to your 2 hours of PE. There are times when a coach or active schools co-ordinator may be supporting the teacher's delivery of quality physical education lesson by providing sports specific content, however, shared planning and preparation should be evident for these sessions. The teacher should always be the LEAD for the lesson with the sports coach or instructor playing a supporting role.
As a head teacher or classroom teacher, you need to remember that bringing in a sports coach or active schools co-ordinator to deliver an activity block DOES NOT count towards your 2 hours of quality PE that week. Any coaching or activity sessions delivered by a non-teacher can only be offered OVER and ABOVE or in ADDITION to your 2 hours of PE. There are times when a coach or active schools co-ordinator may be supporting the teacher's delivery of quality physical education lesson by providing sports specific content, however, shared planning and preparation should be evident for these sessions. The teacher should always be the LEAD for the lesson with the sports coach or instructor playing a supporting role.