PHYSICAL EDUCATION
What our children say about PE
EYFS-
Year 1-
Year 2-
Our vision for PE
Our vision for PE is simple we want every child to feel safe, confident, and excited to move. Our aim is for children to have a lifelong love of physical activity by developing their physical skills, emotional wellbeing, social confidence, and understanding of healthy choices. We believe that every child can shine in PE, regardless of starting point, background, or need. Our approach is parent‑ and child‑friendly, offering clear communication, shared celebrations, and simple ways to stay active at home. We celebrate individuality, remove barriers and make PE a joyful, inclusive journey where all children can thrive from EYFS through KS1.
How we teach PE
Our PE curriculum is designed to meet the requirements of the National Curriculum while reflecting the nurturing, inclusive ethos of Doddinghurst Infant School and the needs of our EYFS and KS1 children. Teachers use visual prompts, demonstrations, and modelling, Key vocabulary is introduced slowly, repeated often, and supported with actions or symbols. Our PE lessons include structured opportunities for turn‑taking, teamwork, and shared problem‑solving. Partner and group activities are carefully planned to support children who find social interaction challenging.
We also enrich PE curriculum through real-life experiences. We take part in a wide range of local PE events, giving children the chance to experience both competitive and fun, participation‑based activities. We enter local competitions where children can challenge themselves, represent the school, and experience healthy competition against other schools. Alongside this, we also take part in festivals and friendly events designed simply for enjoyment, confidence‑building, and trying new activities in a supportive environment.
We are committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to take part, including those with SEND. We enter events created specifically for SEND pupils so they can experience success, celebrate their strengths, and enjoy physical activity in an environment tailored to their needs. Through a balance of modelling, practice, exploration and motivating physical experiences, we help children build confidence, independence and a genuine enjoyment of Physical Education.
What children learn and achieve
Physical Education at our school helps children grow in confidence, physical competence, and self‑belief. As they learn new skills and take part in a wide range of activities, children begin to see themselves as capable, active learners who can make decisions, solve problems, and express themselves through movement. They learn to talk about their performance, notice how their bodies move, and appreciate the effort and achievements of others.
Because our approach is nurturing and inclusive, every child feels able to take part and succeed. Children develop independence, resilience, and pride as they practise techniques, revisit skills, and see their progress over time. They enjoy working with others, celebrating shared success, and feel a real sense of achievement when they master something new.
Through rich experiences, inspiring visitors, and opportunities to learn about sports and physical activity within our local community and beyond, children build a wider understanding of the world and the role PE plays in leading a healthy, active life. By the time they leave our infant school, children have a strong foundation of physical skills, a love of being active, and the confidence to continue exploring Physical Education as they move into Key Stage 2 and beyond.
Enrichment
Our PE enrichment programme gives children exciting opportunities to be active, challenged, and inspired beyond their regular lessons. Sports Day brings the whole school community together in a joyful celebration of teamwork, determination, and personal achievement.
We also welcome coaches, athletes, and specialists from outside organisations who introduce children to new sports, share their expertise, and help broaden their understanding of what it means to lead an active, healthy life. These enriching experiences build confidence, encourage ambition, and help every child discover the enjoyment and possibilities that Physical Education can offer.
P.E subject progression at Doddinghurst Infant School
P.E. vocabulary progression at Doddinghurst Infant School
MRS BEVERLEY WALKER
PE Subject Lead
I have always had a strong passion for sport, and it has been a central part of my life for as long as I can remember. I’ve taken part in many competitive sports over the years, which has helped shape my commitment, teamwork, and resilience.
How families can help at home
