Most children don’t love school. Most children do love PE and Games. Give children a reason to love school. Give children more PE and Games.

I have taught and led Physical Education in both state and independent schools. This term I have been teaching in a secondary school (while my organisation gets back on its feet after the impact of Covid).

In this broader school role (in a good and improving state school) the assertion that most children do not love (or perhaps even like) school has been reinforced. In numerous conversations with children aged 11-16, I have asked, ‘How could we make school more enjoyable?’

‘More PE and Games lessons’, is the overwhelming response.

We must not overlook how it is those who are more competitive who will profit more from inter-school sports, and the sense of school identity attached to these experiences. Though when pitched appropriately, I am convinced all children enjoy extensively and benefit exponentially from high quality Physical Education, Physical Activity and Sport.

In today’s schools, we are encouraged to listen and to respond to the ‘student voice’. More PE and Games please (and more tracksuit time). This is an easy win for children, teachers, parents, schools and for society at large.


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