Active Young People

Gymnastics

Two surveys of teachers’ professional development needs have been conducted through PESS Development Centre schools. Both reports highlighted a low level of both knowledge and confidence in teaching Gymnastics. This project focuses on developing an approach that is progressive across the key stages 1 to 3 for both teachers and pupils. The resources and training provide teachers with activities, skills, shapes and games that introduces children to gymnastics in a positive environment.

Resources and Training:

The focus in the first instance will be to raise standards and confidence levels of teachers in Primary schools. Consultation with all PE Advisors and HEI Lecturers in the content of Gymnastics resources and training has been on going. Welsh Gymnastics have been a partner in the writing and development of resources. The A to Z awards have been developed to be progressive from the PESS approach. For more information on Welsh Gymnastics click here.

Training modules:

The primary teacher training will be delivered in 3 modules

Module 1- Foundation Phase / KS1
Gym Course Outline Module 1

Module 2 – Early KS2
Gym Course Outline Module 2


Module 1&2 Hybrid Course
This is an amalgamation of both modules 1 and 2. Teachers need to attend this before attend module 3.

Module 3 – Late KS2 and transition

The secondary teacher training will be offered as a follow on course: This course is currently being developed.

Module 4 - focus on KS3 provision and opportunities: This course is currently being developed and will include 4 specialist modules in Acrobatics, Aerobics, Tumbling and Rhythmic gymnastics.

Teachers will need either to attend module 1, 2 and 3 primary teacher courses or attend a one day overview course to get an understanding of the PESS approach to Gymnastics and gain an overview of what pupils will have experienced at each level.

Vision for delivery of these modules during ITET is being considered with an HEI group in line with the proposed changes to the structure, content and time available. Currently several institutes are delivering Module 1 courses to students.

Access for non-DC schools has been made available by inviting schools to attend courses being run through DC’s and also through a series of courses being rolled out by HEI’s on behalf of PESS.

Links have been made between the Gymnastics project and other PESS projects including:

  • ITET – standard outcomes for primary teacher training are being piloted in 6 HEI’s;
  • CPD – roll out of Module 1 and 2 teacher courses has been agreed with HEI’s for 08/09;
  • ICT in PE – visual image bank will be created to support the approach and the materials.

Training structure:

A structured training programme of Lead Trainers, National Trainers, Local Tutors and Mentors has been developed to support the implementation of resources through DC’s and to all schools.

  • Authors : Mitch Fenner / Jan Gadd / Jo Coombs / Sian Sanders;
  • Translators: Haf Roberts / Dewi Owens;
  • Resource Development: Jan Gadd;
  • Visual materials: Graham Haines / Adrian Clarke / Jan Gadd / Jo Coombs / Mitch Fenner;
  • National Trainers: Jan Gadd / Sian Sanders / Karen Rhys-Jones. The trainers will provide familiarisation support to National Trainers who will include HEI lecturers and PEA’s.