EFDS recognises headteacher’s role to ensure every child has access to inclusive PE

A report released by the Department of Education, on the use and impact of the primary school sport premium, found eight out of ten teachers believe that it had increased every child’s participation level. Nearly a third of those surveyed (30%) specifically referenced the impact on children with special educational needs and disabilities. The English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS) welcomes these latest findings, but believes there is still significant work to do to ensure all children have access to a quality PE experience.

The report released on the 8 September 2014, found as a result of the investment, the quality of PE teaching had increased (said by nine out of ten schools surveyed). It also recognised a large proportion of funding to date had been invested in external coaches and providers to support both PE and extra-curricular activity. 

Whilst input from experts from the community is clearly beneficial, EFDS believes we need to ensure the impact is sustainable. The national charity, dedicated to disabled people in sport and physical activity throughout England, believes that the upskilling of teachers within primary schools is crucial to ensure the quality of PE continues to increase. This approach encourages teachers to take creativity and inclusive awareness that they naturally already use in a classroom to the sports hall or field.  Furthermore, if we support trainee teachers we can assure this approach is taken from their very first school placement.

Alongside Youth Sport Trust, EFDS works in partnership across the UK to deliver the Sainsbury’s Active Kids for All Inclusive PE training course. This free training aims to support teachers and trainee teachers to provide high quality PE to all young people. The workshop, that is delivered to meet the needs of both primary and secondary school audiences, is supported by online resources and aims to raise competence and confidence in delivery.

Barry Horne, Chief Executive of EFDS, said of the training:

“A young person’s experiences at school has a significant impact on how active they are in adult life. As a result, high quality, inclusive PE is essential to inspire and encourage young disabled people to lead a full and active lifestyle through sport.”

A trained teacher on the course, Daisy Corbett, Whiston Willis Community Primary School, said:

“I plan to use this training in my lesson tomorrow! I can’t wait to use the ideas to improve my teaching”

Headteachers can play a vital role in supporting their staff to access this training and make a difference to the quality of PE for years to come.

If you would like further information about the programme or to book your place on training please contact ak4a@efds.co.uk / 01509 227751 or visit www.inclusivepe-eng.co.uk