An Introduction to Primary Physical Education

Now in a fully revised and fully updated new edition, this comprehensive introduction to the teaching of Physical Education in primary schools is still the only textbook to cover the full sweep of the subject, from policy and curriculum developments to best practice and current debates.

Written exclusively by primary Physical Education specialists, with primary school teaching experience, the book highlights the importance of Physical Education in the primary curriculum and the key issues facing primary teachers today, such as inclusion, training needs and the development of creativity. Central to the book are core chapters that examine each functional area common to many primary Physical Education syllabi – including games, dance, gymnastics, athletics and outdoor learning – and give clear, practical guidance on how to teach each topic. This new edition includes three completely new chapters, covering leadership, stakeholder interest in Physical Education delivery, and how to manage transitions.

Rooted throughout in sound theory and the latest evidence and research, this book is essential reading for all students, trainee teachers and qualified teachers looking to understand and develop their professional practice in primary Physical Education.

Gerald Griggs is Dean of Etihad Campus at UCFB. Gerald has been passionate about primary Physical Education for over two decades, originally training as a primary teacher with a specialism in Physical Education, before teaching in primary schools across the UK. Since moving into Higher Education, he has published and presented widely on primary Physical Education and the sociology of sport, most notably for Routledge with such titles as An Introduction to Physical Education, Understanding Primary Physical Education and The Routledge Handbook of Primary Physical Education. Gerald is also a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on a Fit and Healthy Childhood and co-founder of the Primary Physical Education Assembly.

Vicky Randall is Senior Fellow and Physical Education coordinator for teacher education at the University of Winchester, UK. Vicky has worked in education for over 15 years where she was a Physical Education teacher and Regional Subject Adviser before moving into Higher Education. Her research interests include teacher professional knowledge, curriculum development, teacher development, policy and professional learning. Vicky has worked across a number of national and European professional networks to support initial teacher education and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.