EYFS
Physical development is recognised as a ‘Prime Area’ within the EYFS framework and is an essential developmental area impacting on other areas of learning. Pupils fundamental Physical development skills are developed during the EYFS, laying a foundation for future learning and development in PE. Development Matters sets out the key progressional stages of Physical development from birth working towards the Early Learning Goal the end of Reception. Particular areas of focus include movement, balance, spatial awareness and co-ordination, developing both fine and gross motor skills, developing the whole child.
All pupils within the EYFS will be given the opportunity to undertake activities that provide appropriate physical challenge both indoors and outdoors every day. A combination of child initiated and carefully planned adult focus times enable children to use, develop and refine knowledge and skills contributing to the overall physical development of the child.
In Nursery children take part in weekly developmental movement play sessions. This gives the children the freedom to move their bodies in lots of different ways which gives the children opportunities to engage in innate movement and patterns. Research shows this has a significant impact on both the children’s physical and brain development. These sessions include using equipment such as a spinning cone, balance beams, stretchy lyrca, beanbags, scarfs and holding bands.
In Reception children take part in a weekly planned PE session, following our ‘Get Set for PE’ scheme of work. This content allows for children to experience movement, interaction and engagement through structured play. They will be given opportunities to understand rules and boundaries, using a variety of equipment and working both independently and with others. The content has been carefully sequenced to bridge the gap between play and the KS1 NC PE. Children will follow our Long term planned curriculum of Introduction to PE, Fundamental skills, Ball skills, Gymnastics, Dance and Games. Those medium term planned units allow children to develop skills in isolation and in simple combination. Reinforce the teaching points for FMS in all PE units to help children increase their competence.