Inspection Report

Physical Education

8.78         During the inspection, it was not possible to see lessons in physical education (PE) in Years 1 and 2.

8.79         Pupils’ attainment in PE, including games, is good.  They demonstrate good ball skills, knowledge of different games and of levels of fitness.

8.80         Progress in PE and games is good.  In lessons on ball skills, pupils of all ages and abilities move on from dribbling, to dribbling and shooting, and then to applying these skills in a variety of games.  In Year 7, pupils learn basketball dribbling skills and the lay-up shot, and then how to combine these two skills in a paired dribbling and shooting activity.  In netball pupils learn how to jump and catch, and then how to jump, catch and turn to left or right in order to turn away from an opponent.

8.81         The quality of learning in Years 3 to 8 is good.  Pupils respond well to teaching: they listen carefully and work hard on the task set.  Pupils are always willing to contribute to discussion and put forward views on good practice.  Pupils learn and participate well, both in groups and individually, with sustained levels of concentration and motivation.

8.82         Attitudes and behaviour in Years 3 to 8 are very good.  Pupils arrive promptly for lessons with the correct kit.  They form good working relationships with each other.  When participating in passing games, they show consideration to the partner they are passing to.  Pupils also form respectful but relaxed relationships with their teachers and are always willing to demonstrate particular skills with a teacher.  Pupils work cooperatively and consider the feelings of others.  They frequently congratulate not only their own partners but also other pupils for good play.  Team spirit of a high standard was observed in a school match, with pupils encouraging each other at all times.

8.83         The teaching in Years 3 to 8 is good.  The needs of all pupils are catered for. For example, in a netball lesson, a group of Year 6 girls were split into two groups and taught the same skills at different levels.  Choice of task, suitability of approach and clarity of instruction contribute to the attainment and progress of the pupils.  Teachers have good knowledge both of the subject, and of the skills required to participate in a given sport at a good standard, as was seen in a lesson where pupils were taught passing skills in rugby football.  Lessons have a good pace and teachers set targets that challenge all pupils.  Pupils are stimulated and motivated by the enthusiasm of the teachers.  They feel free to ask questions and contribute orally to group discussion on rules and tactics.  PE activity sheets are used when bad weather prevents outdoor activities.

8.84         Lessons are planned to meet the learning objectives, which are made clear to the pupils at the beginning of the lesson.  Time and resources are used effectively and efficiently.  The heads of department have implemented a system of assessment to grade pupils in all sports on the curriculum and at the end of the year give them a National Curriculum level of attainment.

8.85         Staff development within the department is good and staff are encouraged to attend courses.  For example, three teachers have recently obtained qualifications that allow them to supervise pupils’ swimming.

8.86         The department has strong links with parents and the community.  Matches are published in the school calendar, team sheets are published well in advance and able pupils are encouraged to join local clubs and teams that are posted on a separate notice board.  The school also participates in the “New Forest Primary School Sports Scheme” which is designed to get more pupils to participate in a wider range of sporting activity.  There is an annual sports tour to Jersey and trips are arranged to Twickenham and Wimbledon.

8.87         The PE and games department is well resourced and has very good facilities.  The department is well-staffed, with willing and suitably qualified teachers.  There is a clear development plan which targets areas in need of development and dance is being introduced for the first time next term.

8.88         PE and games in the school are well-managed and the leadership is good.  It provides clear direction and a sense of purpose that is conducive to effective teaching and learning.