Physical Education

Physical Education is a major part of student life at Thurstable school. Everyone should understand the role that health and well-being plays in society, and the way sport and exercise can improve confidence, relieve stress and anxiety.

Participation and enjoyment is the main value in the faculty, and the awareness that exercise is a life-long commitment. They may not develop into county or international athletes, but we can certainly motivate and develop every individual to achieve their potential.

Students may be performers, officials, organisers or leaders and we strive to provide opportunities for them to find the role that suits them best. They work as individuals, in groups and in teams, developing concepts of fairness and of personal and social responsibility.

The faculty also works hard to encourage sports and active lifestyles into the sixth form. We offer academic qualifications to all levels of students, as well as practical opportunities through our Colchester United football programme, and cheerleading. See the 6th form prospectus for more details.

Curriculum Intent

A high-quality physical education curriculum inspires all pupils to succeed and excel in sport and other physically-demanding activities. Thurstable provides opportunities for pupils to develop their physical and mental confidence in a way which supports their health and fitness. Opportunities to compete in sport and other activities build character and help to embed positive life-long habits.

Targets of the Curriculum

• Develop competence to excel in a broad range of physical activities  

• Pupils are physically active for sustained periods of time  

• Engage in competitive sports and activities  

• Lead future healthy, active lives 

Key Stage 4 Qualifications

Pupils have the opportunity to study the following courses in Year 10 and 11:

BTEC Level 1/ 2 First Award in Sport (Pearson)

The course builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills established in Key Stage 3 Physical Education.  It will give you exciting opportunities to be involved in a number of different physical activities, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.  You can perform in one or all of the following roles, player/participant, leader or official.  You should have a keen interest in PE and sport, enjoy being active and appreciate the benefits of keeping fit and healthy. 

Course Content

75% coursework and 25% online exam. 

BTEC Level 1/ 2 First Tech award in Performing Arts (Pearson)

During the course students study a variety of different units experiencing a variety of different dance styles. These styles will include jazz, street/hip hop, contemporary and other styles that may suit the pupil’s strengths and styles studied outside of school.

The course consists of three components 

Component 1: Exploring the Performing Arts

Component 2: Developing Skills and Techniques in the Performing Arts

Component 3: Performing to a Brief

Students work is assessed through practical performances and some theory work which is completed during lesson time and as homework. This work will be assessed externally by Edexcel and internally by members of staff.

Facilities

The faculty and students enjoy some of the best facilities in the area. The sports centre houses a 4 Badminton court sized hall and a dedicated Dance studio, in addition there is a gymnasium with an indoor rock climbing wall, 2 squash courts, and a newly refurbished fitness gym. Outside we have the luxury of a full size 3G Astroturf, four netball courts, and a further 3 football and one grass rugby pitch.

Enrichment

We run a full extra-curricular programme, providing opportunities for students to experience a variety of team and individual activities. Rugby, Football, Netball, Dance, Cheerleading, Badminton, Fitness, Athletics, Cricket and Rounders are the most popular activities. Each activity can be competed in, or just enjoyed as a social recreation. In addition we do run other activities if the demand is great enough, just ask your PE teacher!!

The Faculty runs a very successful Duke of Edinburgh award scheme (DofE), where pupils can take part in outdoor expeditions to gain their nationally recognised awards.

The bi-annual Ski trip is very popular as well as other trips e.g. International matches at Twickenham and Essex University.

Gifted and talented students are supported is as many ways as is possible. Some of our students compete for the county, for the region and nationally. Some of those students are identified within Thurstable, others from their own very dedicated efforts outside. All are important and valued.

Our annual awards evening recognises the efforts of all students, as athletes, officials or leaders of the future, celebrates their successes, commitment and considerable achievements.