At Thirsk C P School, we believe that physical activity plays an important role in supporting children’s health, confidence and overall wellbeing. Our PE curriculum aims to develop not only physical skills, but also resilience, teamwork and a positive attitude towards an active lifestyle.
To support high-quality teaching and progression across the school, we use the Real PE programme alongside structured PE planning schemes of learning. These programmes help ensure that children build their physical skills step by step while developing personal qualities such as confidence, cooperation and perseverance.
Our PE curriculum is rooted in our school values of Ambition, Inclusion and Compassion.
Ambition
We encourage all pupils to challenge themselves, try new activities and strive to improve their physical skills. Through carefully planned lessons, children develop agility, balance, coordination and control while building the confidence to push themselves and celebrate progress.
Inclusion
Physical education at our school is designed so that every child can take part and succeed. The Real PE approach focuses on personal development and adapting activities so that pupils of all abilities feel supported and valued. We aim for every child to experience success and enjoyment in physical activity.
Compassion
Through sport and physical activity, pupils learn to respect and encourage one another. We promote teamwork, fair play and empathy so that children learn to celebrate the achievements of others as well as their own.
Across the school, pupils take part in a range of physical activities including games, gymnastics, dance and outdoor activities. These experiences help children develop physical literacy while encouraging lifelong enjoyment of movement and sport.
Intent
Our aim is to provide a broad and balanced PE curriculum that develops pupils’ physical competence, confidence and enjoyment of physical activity. Through high-quality teaching and a wide range of activities, we want children to develop the knowledge, skills and motivation needed to lead active and healthy lives. Our curriculum supports pupils’ physical development while promoting our core values of Ambition, Inclusion and Compassion.
Implementation
PE is taught regularly across all year groups using the Real PE programme alongside the PE Planning Scheme of Learning. Lessons are carefully sequenced so that pupils build their skills progressively throughout their time in school.
The curriculum focuses on developing fundamental movement skills such as agility, balance and coordination, alongside sport-specific skills and teamwork. Lessons are inclusive and adaptable so that all pupils can participate and succeed. Pupils also have opportunities to take part in competitions, festivals and extra-curricular activities which help to develop confidence, resilience and a love of sport.
Impact
Through our PE curriculum, pupils develop the skills, confidence and understanding needed to participate in physical activity both in and beyond school. They learn the importance of healthy lifestyles, teamwork and perseverance. We aim for all pupils to leave Thirsk C P School with positive attitudes towards physical activity and the confidence to remain active throughout their lives.
PE and Sport Premium
The school receives PE and Sport Premium funding to enhance the quality of physical education, physical activity and sport across the school. This funding is used to support staff training, provide additional sporting opportunities, develop equipment and increase participation in extra-curricular sport and competitions.
Further information about how we use this funding and the impact it has on pupils can be found in our PE and Sport Premium report on the school website.
Extra-Curricular Opportunities
We are proud to offer a range of extra-curricular sporting activities and opportunities for pupils to take part in local competitions and events. These experiences help pupils develop confidence, teamwork and enjoyment of sport while representing the school within the wider community.



