Student teachers at the University of Aberdeen have been given practical experience and fresh ideas from Active Schools to help them deliver fun and inclusive PE lessons.
Around 80 students undertaking the Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) (Primary) have taken part in sessions at the University, led by Sport Aberdeen’s Active Schools team. Designed to build confidence around delivering PE in Primary schools, the sessions aim to create positive physical activity experiences for all pupils, no matter their interests or abilities.
The student teachers rotated through a series of practical activities covering warm-ups, age-appropriate games and skill development, alongside wider considerations such as grouping pupils, health and safety and keeping children motivated and engaged.
Inclusive sport was also a key part of the programme, with students taking part in goalball and boccia, while Scottish Orienteering also joined the sessions again this year to introduce further ideas.
Jamie Mundie, Lead Active Schools Coordinator, Sport Aberdeen, said: “For many students, this will be one of their first experiences of thinking about how they might deliver PE in a school environment, so the aim is to support them with a host of ideas and to help build their confidence.
“One of the most important messages we want to get across is that you don’t have to see yourself as ‘sporty’ to deliver a positive PE experience. It’s about making activities fun and inclusive for children, while giving the student teachers the chance to develop new skills to deliver PE lessons in their own schools.
“We also want students to know that Active Schools is there as a resource for them. When they move into their placements and into their teaching roles, they can continue to work alongside our team and can reach out to us for ideas and advice any time.”
This work with the PGDE programme forms part of a wider partnership between Sport Aberdeen and the University of Aberdeen, which has developed over a number of years. The team also works with students on the University’s four-year MA Primary Education programme through practical sessions, lectures on the importance of PE and physical activity, and a fourth-year elective.
Alyson Young, PGDE (Primary) Depute Programme Director & SE Lead, University of Aberdeen, said, “Giving our student teachers practical experience at the very start of their initial teacher education helps them see how PE can be delivered in a way that is accessible and inclusive.
“Our partnership with Active Schools gives students the opportunity to learn from people working directly with schools and communities, while building knowledge and confidence they can carry into their placements and future careers.”
For more information, visit, www.sportaberdeen.co.uk/activities/active-schools