Physical Education is an essential part of academy life at St Matthew’s, giving children the chance to develop physical skills, confidence, teamwork, and self-esteem. Our PE curriculum is designed to be inclusive, engaging, and progressive, helping every child enjoy being active and adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Our Approach: GetSet4PE

We use GetSet4PE, a high-quality online PE programme, to plan and deliver lessons across EYFS, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. GetSet4PE ensures that all lessons are:

• Structured to meet the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum

• Progressive, building skills year by year in a clear sequence

• Engaging, with videos, lesson plans, and activity cards to support teachers and coaches

• Inclusive, catering to all abilities and encouraging every child to succeed

Specialist sports coaches (BeeActive) work alongside class teachers to deliver GetSet4PE lessons, ensuring that children benefit from expert guidance and high-quality instruction.

What Pupils Learn

Through GetSet4PE, children experience a wide range of physical activities, including:

• Gymnastics – developing balance, coordination, strength, and control

• Dance – expressing creativity through movement

• Multi-skills and Athletics – building core physical skills like running, jumping, throwing, and catching

• Games – including basketball, football, and team-based activities

• Swimming – for Key Stage 2 pupils, focusing on water safety and stroke development

GetSet4PE lessons also include elements of fitness, agility, and healthy lifestyle education, helping pupils understand the importance of regular physical activity.

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

PE at St Matthew’s extends beyond the classroom. Pupils can join a variety of after-school clubs, providing opportunities to:

• Refine sports skills

• Take part in friendly competitions and tournaments

• Develop teamwork, resilience, and leadership

• Enjoy physical activity in a fun, social setting

Statutory Requirements

The PE curriculum follows the National Curriculum for England, which is statutory for all primary schools. Through GetSet4PE, we ensure pupils meet these expectations:

Key Stage 1 (Ages 5–7):

• Master basic movements such as running, jumping, throwing, and catching

• Participate in team games, applying simple tactics

• Perform dances using basic movement patterns

Key Stage 2 (Ages 7–11):

• Combine running, jumping, throwing, and catching in a variety of activities

• Play competitive games with an understanding of tactics and rules

• Develop flexibility, strength, technique, control, and balance in gymnastics

• Perform dances creatively and accurately

• Take part in outdoor and adventurous activities, including swimming

• Reflect on and improve their own performance

Our Goals for Pupils

By the end of primary school, children at St Matthew’s will:

• Be confident and competent in a broad range of physical skills

• Demonstrate teamwork, resilience, and good sportsmanship

• Understand the benefits of regular physical activity for health and wellbeing

• Enjoy sport and exercise and develop a lifelong positive attitude toward fitness