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Physical Education

“Physical education (PE) is much more than success on the sports field. It develops competent, confident young people who understand the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle. It also calls for teamwork, leadership and creative thinking. These skills enrich learning and life.”
(QCA Website)

Physical Education is taught throughout the school by subject specialists. The department aims for every pupil to develop self-esteem, dignity and respect of all members of the school community. Physical Education is crucial to pupil development, it can contribute to spritual, moral, cultural and most importantly physical development.

The Physical Education curriculum is developed to provide a broad and balanced range of experiences for pupils, where all are given the opportunity to learn new activities as well as extend skills in sports they have been learning for some time.

An overview of the Lower School Curriculum

Year 7 - Students are taught the basic skills in games, swimming and athletics. Gymnastic lessons involve pupils exploring the themes of weight transference, balance, stretching and curling. The basic effort actions and quality of movement are developed during dance lessons.

Year 8 - In games, swimming and athletics lessons students are taught to refine and adapt existing skills. Gymnastic lessons involve pupils exploring the theme of twisting and turning

Year 9 - In games and athletics lessons students are taught specific techniques. Consistent control is developed. Gymnastic lessons involve pupils exploring the theme of flight. A range of dance styles and forms are developed during dance lessons


GCSE and A Level Physical Education is a popular option for pupils who wish to further their study of sport. Results have been superb, with 100% of pupils gaining A or B grades in GCSE and A Level in 2009. The department follows the OCR specification for GCSE and A Level.

Polam Hall School runs competitive teams in Hockey, Netball, Swimming, Cross-Country, Tennis, Athletics and Rounders and play against local schools, as well as fixtures further afield such as Ampleforth College, Queen Margaret’s and Sedbergh. Recreational clubs are also offered in Dance, Trampolining, Football, Basketball and Running.

The department aims to encourage all pupils to develop physically and acquire the highest possible level of attainment in the skills and techniques which form part of the PE curriculum.

Netball Tour 2010

Following our recent netball tour to Gibraltar, we received a letter of thanks from a parent. Please click here to read it in full.