How Important Is PE in School?
When we ask, “How important is PE in school?” the simple answer is very important. But why? What makes PE important to children while at school?
Below, we’ll explore the pros of physical education and why PE should be seen as a vital part of every child’s school experience.
The Pros of Physical Education
1. Builds Lifelong Healthy Habits
PE helps children understand the value of movement and regular exercise. By establishing healthy habits early, PE in schools can play a key role in reducing the risk of obesity, heart disease, and other lifestyle-related conditions later in life.
2. Improves Mental Health and Wellbeing
Physical activity is proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. A well-delivered PE lesson can improve self-esteem and help children feel more positive about themselves.
3. Supports Academic Achievement
Research shows that children who are physically active often perform better in the classroom. Good engagement in PE can help improve focus, memory, and cognitive skills. This can then help pupils to improve their learning in other areas during the school day.
4. Develops Social Skills and Teamwork
PE provides great opportunities to build communication, cooperation, and leadership skills. This can include when working in teams, or just offering support to each other, pupils learn lessons beyond the sports hall and school life.
5. Encourages Inclusion and Confidence
Not every child excels academically, but PE can provide a different way to shine. From teamwork to perseverance, PE allows children to discover strengths they didn’t know they had, helping them feel valued and included.
6. Teaches Resilience and Goal Setting
Physical education allows pupils to set goals, deal with setbacks, and celebrate progress. These lessons in resilience are essential life skills that benefit them well beyond school.
Why Is PE So Important in Schools?
PE is important because it balances the educational experience. While academic subjects focus on knowledge and cognitive skills, PE ensures that children develop physically, socially, and emotionally, supporting the whole child's needs. At The PE Hub, this is achieved through the Head, Hand, Heart principles: Head for thinking and understanding the ‘why’ behind movement, Hand for developing physical competence and skill, and Heart for creating motivation, enjoyment, and positive attitudes toward being active. Together, these principles prepare young people for healthier, happier, and more successful futures.