Physical Education
At Mary Exton Primary School, we believe that Physical Education plays an essential role in developing healthy, confident and resilient individuals. Our PE curriculum promotes physical development, wellbeing and enjoyment of an active lifestyle, while helping children understand the importance of movement for both physical and mental health. Through a wide range of activities, pupils develop confidence, teamwork, perseverance and a positive attitude towards participation, creating strong foundations for lifelong engagement in sport and physical activity.
Our PE curriculum, delivered through the Complete PE scheme, provides a progressive and inclusive programme from Reception to Year 6. Pupils develop fundamental movement skills, physical literacy and increasing competence across a broad range of activities, including team games, invasion games, striking and fielding, net and wall activities, athletics, dance and gymnastics. Alongside this, all Key Stage 2 pupils experience a dedicated block of Yoga to develop flexibility, balance, strength, self-awareness and wellbeing. Swimming is also a key part of our provision, with pupils attending Luton Swimming Pool for two terms to develop water confidence, stroke technique and essential water safety skills, with additional support provided for pupils who require further practice.
PE is taught through well-sequenced lessons that focus on developing, applying and refining skills through repetition, challenge and consolidation. Teachers use the Complete PE learning model and assessment tools alongside observation and pupil reflection to monitor progress and adapt teaching to meet the needs of all learners. Lessons are inclusive and carefully adapted so that every child can participate, achieve and feel successful. Opportunities beyond curriculum lessons, including sports clubs, competitions and active lunchtimes, further encourage pupils to enjoy being physically active. Through our PE curriculum, children develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to lead healthy, active lives and leave Mary Exton with a lifelong appreciation of the benefits of physical activity.
PE Enrichment
At Mary Exton Primary School, we provide a wide range of enrichment opportunities to inspire pupils, develop their skills, and foster a lifelong love of physical activity. Through our strong links with the Hitchin Sports Partnership, children have the chance to participate in competitive sporting events and tournaments, representing the school in activities such as football, netball, athletics, and more. Alongside these competitions, we ensure that all pupils can enjoy fun, non-competitive events, including the annual Olympics Legacy event in the summer term, which encourages teamwork, resilience, and enjoyment of physical activity for all.
We also celebrate performance and creativity through our spring term Dance Show, giving children the opportunity to express themselves through movement and choreography. A wide variety of lunchtime and after-school clubs—including netball, football, and running—ensure that pupils of all abilities can take part in activities that suit their interests and help them develop fitness, skills, and confidence.
In addition, we train Year 6 play leaders to support active playtimes and lunchtime provision, empowering older pupils to lead games and activities, encourage participation, and promote healthy, active play across the school. These enrichment opportunities complement our PE curriculum, helping children develop physically, socially, and emotionally while fostering teamwork, leadership, and enjoyment in sport and physical activity.
Useful links and documents
Below are key documents that provide a clear overview of our Physical Education curriculum at Mary Exton Primary School. They outline the progression of skills, knowledge, and physical competencies from Early Years to Year 6, showing how pupils develop fundamental movement skills, confidence, and coordination over time. These documents also highlight how our curriculum meets statutory National Curriculum requirements, including opportunities for fitness, team games, dance, gymnastics, swimming, and outdoor/adventurous activities. They demonstrate how enrichment opportunities—such as Yoga, swimming lessons, and participation in competitions—support pupils to improve their physical wellbeing, develop teamwork, and enjoy an active lifestyle. Together, these resources provide a comprehensive view of how PE is planned, delivered, and assessed across the school, ensuring all children can participate, progress, and thrive.
