Primary Sports Education
Sports education is not only a highly valuable part of a curriculum, it is also compulsory in the majority of Australian primary schools. Studies show that sports education in schools can help make students healthier, more attentive, more confident and less likely to be absent from class.
Sports education and sports programs help students to improve their physical fitness and learn new skills, strategies and codes of behaviour. Through sports education, students can begin to develop an understanding of the value of working as part of a team and the concept of fair play, as well as build social and leadership skills.
If you’re planning a sports program for primary students, there are a few things to keep in mind. A good sports education program should do the following:
- support the inclusion of all students and facilitate participation
- provide opportunities for students to develop self-management and leadership skills
- promote appropriate attitudes to competition
- advocate life-long health messages
- encourage physical activity outside of school
Aim to create a sports education program that is varied, enjoyable and takes into account the fitness levels of all pupils.
Most importantly, focus on providing a positive learning environment for students, where they feel safe and supported. We’ve all heard horror stories of children being picked on – by students and even occasionally teachers – in physical education classes; the long-term effects of a negative experience can be as detrimental as a good experience can be valuable to lifelong health and wellbeing.
Medibank Icehouse runs professionally-developed ice sports programs for schools. As well as one-off recreational sessions, we offer multi-session, sport-specific programs in ice hockey, curling, speed skating and figure skating – ideal for primary school sports education programs.
