What is Physical Education?
So what is P.E.? Is it the same as games? Are sports lessons the same as P.E.? What is sport? Confused? Lets try and sort out some of these ideas.
Physical Education involves people in learning and taking part in physical activities. P.E. is often described in physical terms because that's what we can see developing. Teachers, coaches and parents can help you learn physical skills and improve your physical fitness. However, you cant really separate the mind from the body, so P.E. is also about developing the mind through the physical activity. It is part of the process of education, through which you can learn to control and coordinate your body.
The teaching of physical education occurs in the context of education. it is therefore often described as "education through the physical"
Physical Education focuses on the movement of the body, involves coordination and control, and the development of creativity, enjoyment and understanding.
The overall aims of P.E. are to develop:
Physical Skills and Abilities
Knowledge and Understanding
Positive attitudes to Activity and Health
Social Awareness
Six areas of activity are identified in the National Curriculum P.E.
Games
Athletics
Gymnastics
Outdoor Activities
Dance
Swimming
