


Kemball School recognises the vital importance of physical health and wellbeing, promoting and facilitating healthy, active lifestyles for all our pupils. Physical Education and Physical Development are integral to our curriculum, designed to meet the unique needs and aspirations of every learner. We ensure all pupils feel included, engaged and challenged within a supportive, nurturing environment. We recognise that pupils’ physical needs vary greatly and that learning takes time; every pupil is given the opportunity to consolidate knowledge, build confidence and develop their physical skills at their own pace.
Planned, progressive and well-sequenced provision, tailored to individual needs.
• A broad range of physical development opportunities including physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, sensory diet activities and sport-specific skill-building.
• Opportunities to understand why physical development matters in their own lives.
• Guidance to support healthy lifestyles that benefit both physical and mental health.
• Teaching to help pupils recognise and describe how their bodies feel during activity and exercise.
• Experiences that foster enjoyment, motivation and personal satisfaction, celebrating effort and achievement.
• Engagement in activities that build character, self-confidence and embed core values including fairness, respect and sportsmanship.
Why do we want this?
Our primary goal is to deliver high-quality teaching and learning that enables every child to succeed, enjoy their learning, build resilience and consistently strive to do their best – reaching their full potential and personal best. We aim to develop social and communication skills, encourage teamwork, and promote positive mental health and emotional wellbeing.
PE and Physical Development sessions are adapted across the school to meet individual physical needs. Our four pathways ensure the right level of challenge and support for every learner:
Multi‑Sensory Pathway
Pupils access a range of sessions tailored to their physical needs, including Rebound Therapy, Physiotherapy, Hydrotherapy and Swimming. These take place at least twice weekly, or as a combined programme where appropriate. This provision is essential for developing and maintaining movement, flexibility and strength, supporting vital functions and overall health, while providing rich sensory stimulation that promotes positive mental health and wellbeing.
Engagement Pathway
Focusses on core movements and foundational skills such as walking, running, jumping, hopping and basic coordination. Alongside general PE resources, pupils access swimming, soft play and the outdoor play area, supporting the development of gross and fine motor skills alongside key physical competencies.
Progression Pathway
Pupils are introduced to more sport-specific skills, developing their understanding of different activities and the techniques required to participate. They are encouraged to demonstrate respect, sportsmanship, teamwork and an understanding of rules.
Functional Pathway
Pupils continue to access a broad range of sports, gymnastics, dance and athletics – including the physical element of the Duke of Edinburgh Award. They develop and apply skills through appropriately competitive games and activities, ranging from traditional sports such as football and hockey to adapted formats including Table Cricket. Pupils also have opportunities to apply their skills in inter‑school fixtures and events.
Across all pathways, individual physical needs are identified and addressed. Pupils may be selected for specialist programmes including Rebound Therapy, Physiotherapy and Hydrotherapy alongside their core PE provision, regardless of age, class or pathway.
Our pupils engage with and enjoy physical exercise and sport. Their physical needs are supported and met, and their ambitions, aspirations and enthusiasm are nurtured through meaningful, accessible experiences. By providing these opportunities, we equip pupils with the skills, physical confidence, experiences and positive associations that encourage them to keep physical activity at the heart of their lives – both during their time at Kemball and in adulthood, as part of a healthy, fulfilling life.