Physical Education

In Nursery and Early Years, our sports programme is designed to be fun and engaging. Lessons focus on agility, balance, coordination, and teamwork. We gently introduce the rules and equipment for specific sports and activities in a way that is accessible and enjoyable for young children. These high-energy sessions ensure that every pupil learns the importance of progress, focus, and dedication. Activities are structured to promote physical development while also instilling the joy of movement and play.

As pupils progress to the Lower School, the emphasis on agility, coordination, balance, and fitness continues. We introduce team sports such as football, netball, rugby, and cricket. Basic skills and techniques for each sport are taught through challenges and games, helping children develop transferable skills needed for various sports. Swimming lessons commence in Year 2, providing an essential life skill and an additional avenue for physical development. We also introduce gymnastics, which focuses on flexibility, strength, and body control. These activities aim to build confidence and competence in a supportive and encouraging environment. 

In the Upper School, pupils delve deeper into team sports, with a focus on competitive play. We arrange competitive fixtures every term and host several intra-school tournaments throughout the year. Our pupils also participate in numerous local and regional events, such as the IAPS competitions. This exposure to a higher level of competition helps pupils hone their skills, understand sportsmanship, and experience the excitement of representing their school. 

Competitions and Events 

Our pupils have the opportunity to participate in a variety of prestigious competitions as well as our own intra-school events, including: 

• Swimming IAPS: A highly competitive event that brings together the best young swimmers from across the region, offering a platform to demonstrate their speed, technique, and endurance in the pool. 

• Table Tennis IAPS: A platform for pupils to showcase their skills in this fast-paced sport, competing against some of the most talented young players in the area. 

• St George’s Park U11 Football Tournament: An exciting opportunity for our young footballers to compete at a renowned venue, providing an unforgettable experience and the chance to play against top-level teams. 

• Bisham Abbey U11 Netball Tournament: A chance for our netball teams to compete and excel, offering a competitive environment that fosters teamwork and strategic play. 

• Upper School Swimming Gala: A gala that gives all pupils in our Upper School the opportunity to swim against each other in this fun event, encouraging healthy competition and school spirit. 

• U11 Kew Cup Tag Rugby Tournament: A competitive local schools’ event where pupils get to compete against others in the local area, promoting sportsmanship and community engagement. 

• 10 Nations Tag Rugby Tournament: An international-themed event where students participate in tag rugby, representing different nations in a friendly yet competitive atmosphere. 

• Gardener Schools Cross Country: A challenging cross-country event with our sister school RPPS, that tests endurance and perseverance, offering pupils a chance to compete in long-distance running against their peers. 

• Sports Day: An annual highlight that involves the whole school in various athletic events, fostering school spirit, teamwork, and the joy of physical activity.