Integration with other subjects

• There are endless opportunities for integration of Physical Education with other subject areas. The development of other curricular areas can be enriched through a programme of physical education which is broad and balanced. Planning for the transfer and reinforcement of learning from one area of the curriculum to another is essential to ensure success. It is important therefore for schools to consider the links that exist between physical education and other subjects at each class level. In implementing the literacy and numeracy strategy, there are endless opportunities for integration of literacy and numeracy with Physical Education.

Promoting gender equity through physical education

• In planning the physical education programme, consideration should be given, on an equitable basis, to the needs and interests of both girls and boys. Access to a balanced programme of physical education activities should be ensured for girls and boys.

Providing for different abilities and planning for children with special needs

• Teachers need to consider planning to suit differing abilities. As physical education is a necessary part of the curriculum for all children, the programme should offer each child the widest possible range of experiences. A safe and secure environment should be provided for physical education appropriate to the child with special needs. A child who is especially gifted should be challenged by tasks appropriate to his/her level of ability.

Safe practice in physical education

• Safety precautions cannot remove all risks but should eliminate unnecessary hazards. The following should be considered:
  • the working relationship between teacher and class is one of the most important factors in fostering a safe learning environment
  • the medical conditions of individual children, which may affect their safety during a physical education lesson, should be made known to the teacher
  • the skill and knowledge of the teacher, combined with the sense of responsibility of the child, can help prevent accidents
  • an awareness of the age, stage of development and any special needs of the child is essential in ensuring the child’s safety
  • the safety statement within the school plan should contain procedure to be adopted should accidents occur in the physical education lesson
  • emphasis should be placed on the maintenance of good posture throughout all activities, which is especially important when lifting and carrying apparatus
  • Children need to acquire a practical knowledge and understanding of warming up and cooling down in order to prepare the body safely and effectively for exercise and to recover afterwards. Teachers need to present warming up and cooling down activities that are safe and enjoyable
  • each school should devise an appropriate practice for dress for physical education. Appropriate footwear is especially important. Jewellery should not be worn.
  • The equipment used for all activities should be suitable in size, weight and design to the age, strength and ability of the child and should be of good quality and in good repair.