Where can I find the sport / activity my child is currently learning in PE so I can ensure they have the correct kit?
The PE curriculum is published on the school website including the dates when students change sports/activity (oakley-school.com). The curriculum is displayed around the department and in changing rooms. Students are informed of the sport/activity by their, teacher and through our communication app – My Child at School - when required.
What health & safety procedures are in place to keep my child safe?
We have internal risk assessments, follow the recommendations from the Association for Physical Education (AfPE) and sport specific national governing bodies such as the RFU (where appropriate in school). All jewellery and adornments must be removed for PE, long hair must be tied up and appropriate footwear for the activity worn.
What are the PE Kit requirements?
These remain the same throughout the year. A full list of kit requirements can be viewed on our website oakley-school.com. Pupils are required to bring PE kit to every lesson, including if they are ill/injured/unable to participate.
Why do students have to bring kit if they are ill or injured?
Students who are unable to take part will stay with their PE class. This may be outside on the field/astro turf/courts in all weathers. The rationale behind students bringing kit is:
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Students are much more engaged in the learning / lesson in kit. They feel included rather than isolated in uniform on the side. Research reinforces this.
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There may be some activities or skills they can still perform i.e., with a sprained wrist they could complete lower body work, kicking, slow movement, footwork patterns.
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Wearing PE kit protects student’s school uniform and shoes from the terrain and weather.
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Non-participants will be given an alternative role in the lesson such as coaching, officiating or giving feedback to others. This is more effectively performed in kit.
This is a blanket policy in place for all activities/lessons. Exceptions being students who cannot physically get changed i.e., their leg/arm is in a plaster cast, broken hand, parents /guardians are having to dress them etc.
What do I do if my son/daughter is ill or injured when they have PE?
Prior to the lesson, send your son/daughter into school with either a written note from home with the date and your signature on. Alternatively, you can email their class teacher or main school office. Students should still bring kit as outlined above. Please ensure this is prior to the lesson.
What about football boots and other protective equipment?
For football on the field, students will need studded football boots, plastic studs are preferred as these can be worn on a variety of surfaces. They will also require shin pads. Astro-turf trainers/Astro’s/hockey shoes are not permitted on the field for safety reasons. Gum shields are strongly recommended for contact Rugby in line with the RFU policies.
What happens if students fail to arrive at lessons with their kit?
In each half term, the first offence will be a verbal warning, second offence formal warning, third break time detention, fourth after school detention. Further offences will escalate to the pastoral team. We have spare clean kit which will be offered to those students who fail to bring kit.
Will students go outside in cold weather?
We aim to keep students as active as possible, and we will continue with lessons in cold weather. However, students are encouraged to wear layers to stay warm and plan ahead, for example, in colder weather, students could wear a plain black base layer/skin with their polo shirt and long-sleeved games shirt over the top. This combined with plain black tracksuit bottoms would be much preferable to a skort/shorts and polo shirt on a very cold day.
Will the students go outside if it is raining?
In wet weather, the students may not go outside for PE. Teachers will use their professional judgment at the start of each lesson.
Do students have to sign up for extra-curricular PE clubs?
Students do not have to sign up for extra-curricular clubs. The timetable for clubs is published on the website/social media and around the PE department. All students are welcome to all attend clubs. Students must ensure parents/carers are aware they are participating and arrive with the correct kit. Additionally, students must ensure that they are able to get home safely after the club has finished.
N.B. Earrings must be removed for lessons, therefore please ensure that your son/daughter can remove and replace them after lessons.
