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Physical Education

Mission Statement

At Dorchester Learning Centre, the Physical Education curriculum aims to support 

the holistic development of every young person, recognising that many students arrive with disrupted educational experiences, low confidence, and barriers to engagement, PE provides a positive outlet for energy, emotion, and self-expression, while building self- esteem, physical competence and resilience. 

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Our curriculum is designed to: 

  • Re-engage pupils in education through enjoyable, inclusive, and achievable physical recreation 

  • Develop physical literacy, fitness, and fundamental movement skills 

  • Promote positive mental health and emotional regulation 

  • Build confidence, self-esteem, and resilience 

  • Encourage teamwork, communication, and respect 

  • Support pupils in developing healthy, active lifestyles beyond school 

  • Provide opportunities for success, leadership, and personal achievement 

  • Offer opportunities to play non-physical recreational activities such as short mat bowls, indoor curling and petanque. 

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The PE curriculum recognises that pupils at DLC may have experienced barriers such as exclusion, trauma, or poor self-belief. Therefore, sports sessions — both onsite and at Redlands Community Sports Hub - prioritise relationship building, positive experiences of success, and personal progress rather than competition alone. 

Implementation

The PE curriculum is delivered through a broad, flexible, and inclusive programme designed to meet the needs of students with diverse social, emotional, and behavioural needs. 

Key features include: 

Inclusive and Adaptive Teaching 

  • Activities are differentiated to ensure accessibility for all pupils 

  • Small group teaching supports individual needs and behaviour regulation 

  • Staff model positive relationships, encouragement, and clear expectations 

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum includes a balance of: 

  • Team sports (e.g., football, basketball, handball, dodgeball) 

  • Individual activities fitness training opportunities in our on—site gym) 

  • Racket sports and engagement activities (pickleball, table tennis, short tennis, mini tennis, badminton, dodgeball) 

  • Outdoor and adventurous activities where possible 

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These activities are sequenced to develop: 

  • Fundamental movement skills 

  • Tactical understanding 

  • Physical fitness 

  • Personal and social skills 

Sports equipment

Focus on Personal Development

PE lessons actively develop: 

  • Self-regulation 

  • Communication 

  • Respect for rules and others 

  • Resilience and perseverance 

  • Confidence building/improved self-esteem 

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Pupils are encouraged to set personal goals and reflect on progress, reinforcing a sense of achievement. 

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Health and Wellbeing 

Students learn about through individual activities and small-sided games: 

  • The benefits of physical activity 

  • Mental wellbeing 

  • Healthy lifestyle choices 

  • Managing stress and emotions through physical activity 

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Positive Behaviour and Engagement

 

Clear routines, structured activities, and supportive relationships help pupils to; 

  • Re-engage with learning 

  • Experience success 

  • Develop positive attitudes towards participation 

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Impact

The impact of the PE curriculum is seen in pupils who: 

  • Show improved engagement and participation in physical activity 

  • Develop greater confidence and self-esteem 

  • Demonstrate improved teamwork, communication, and respect 

  • Show increased resilience and willingness to try new challenges 

  • Develop better emotional regulation and behaviour 

  • Understand the importance of healthy and active lifestyles 

  • Actively seek to further develop their skills outside of school in sports clubs 

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Over time, pupils build the skills and confidence to: 

  • Participate in sport and physical activity beyond school 

  • Work cooperatively with others 

  • Apply resilience and perseverance to wider learning and life experiences Success

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Is measured through: 

  • Increased participation and attendance in PE 

  • Student voice and engagement 

  • Behaviour improvements during physical activity 

  • Development of physical skills and fitness 

  • Personal progress and confidence 

  • Having gained positive experiences in an activity, individual students then seek to represent sports teams outside of school. 

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