TO EVALUATE THE TEACHERS PERCEPTIONS TO THE BARRIERS OF INCLUSION IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN A WELSH SECONDARY SCHOOL

Abstract

Inclusion of all pupils in Physical Education (PE) is something that is understood by many researchers as impossible. This study aimed to look at possible barriers to inclusion in PE by conducting a series of interviews based in a school in Wales. Due to the recent 2008 change to the national curriculum, and the newly added Entitlement section, inclusion within schools in Wales is a current hot topic and recent initiatives such as the 5 x 60 programme have been implemented with the intention to include all pupils. The objectives of the study included establishing and understanding the concepts of inclusion, identifying possible barriers to inclusion and further providing possible solutions or ways of preventing the recognised barriers. Initial observations took place alongside a review of current literature in order to identify themes. These themes later provided a framework for a series of interview questions to be based around and the interview guide was sent to all participants who were later interviewed on the school grounds. The findings of the study identified barriers which included: subject status; a negative attitude from pupils towards PE; incorrectly managed teaching assistants; the failure of the 5 x 60 initiative to include/appeal to all pupils; and the inability to maximise all facilities. Analysis of the data allowed for comparisons to be drawn between previous literature and the findings of the study, newly found data was also examined further and possible solutions to barriers were presented. Other findings of the study included how crucial re-branding was in PE and that some of the older, more experienced teachers struggled to change their methods of teaching when it could be potentially needed. As the study was based in only one school in Wales, the results cannot be generalised however they can provide an insight into the possible barriers to inclusion in PE in Wales. Possible avenues for future research in the subject area based on the findings could include the measurability of the 5 x 60 programme and reasons as to why pupils still perceive it to be for the more able and talented only.