Consequences of the lack of high quality Physical Education in Primary Schools in Wales on healthy lifestyles and active participation, a case for specialist intervention?

Abstract

There is a growing pressure on primary schools to deliver high quality physical education (HQPE) in the physical education (PE) lessons but there is also a constant worry that it is not being attained due to many barriers and issues facing Local Authorities (LA), schools, teachers, pupils and the community. This study focused on issues related to the successful implementation of HQPE in primary schools and why it is extremely benficial, why it is not being achieved and how it could be. The study also draws upon these issues and whether specialist subject intervention within the primary school sector could be beneficial. A range of reviewed literature is used to underpin all aspects of the study, to reitirate all views, opinions and experiences drawn upon throughout this investigation. The study consisted of semi-structured focus interviews with four individuals with a career or subect relevance to the study topic. Various sub-topics were explored within the interviews to gain a broad understanding of what aspects most substantially affected HQPE in PE. The study researched previous findings regarding the topic and discovered teacher training to be one of the most highlighted areas of concern when it came to implementing HQPE. Clearly embedded in the research were areas of concern for the Government, schools, local funding and that it was a historical issue which has been apparent since the 1900s. The main findings of this study typically are replicating that of previous studies, literature and researchers. The benefits of providing a HQPE at primary school level are well documented but there are many past and current barriers facing the implementation of HQPE. The lack of HQPE in the majority of primary school is also causes current and future problems which could have wide ranging consequences for the health and physical literacy standards of future generations. Specialist subject intervention therefore would be beneficial and desirable were it affordable, sustainable and of a first class standard.