What Is in a Primary PE Curriculum?
A Complete Guide to the Primary PE Curriculum
Physical Education plays a vital role in a child’s development. But what exactly should be included in a primary PE curriculum? Understanding the contents of a primary PE curriculum helps ensure children receive a balanced, high-quality physical education.
What Is a Primary PE Curriculum?
The primary PE curriculum is a structured programme of physical education designed for primary-aged children. It outlines:
- The physical skills pupils should develop
- The knowledge and understanding they should gain
- The attitudes and values they should build
- The assessment expectations across year groups
In England, for example, the framework is guided by the Department for Education through the National Curriculum.
Core Aims of a Primary PE Curriculum
A well-designed primary curriculum PE programme aims to:
- Develop fundamental movement skills
- Promote physical confidence
- Encourage healthy, active lifestyles
- Foster teamwork and sportsmanship
- Improve physical fitness
- Support mental well-being
PE at primary school is not just about sport. It is about building the foundations for lifelong physical activity. It should introduce them to and engage them in physical activity in a variety of ways. This should then spark lifelong participation for children in an activity they enjoy. Check out our blog on the aims of the PE curriculum, for more advice.
Key Components of a Primary PE Curriculum
1. Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS)
These are the building blocks of all physical activity. In early years and Key Stage 1, there is a strong focus on:
- Running
- Jumping
- Throwing
- Catching
- Balancing
- Skipping
- Rolling
Without strong fundamental movement skills, children may struggle in later sport-specific activities. It is important that children are given lots of opportunities to practice and develop these skills in as many different ways as possible.
2. Games
As pupils progress, they apply skills in structured games. There are different categories of games that can be used in a primary PE curriculum. These are:
Invasion Games
Invasion games involve teams competing to score by moving into an opponent’s area while defending their own space. These games develop teamwork, tactical awareness, and quick decision-making. Examples include:
- Football
- Basketball
- Hockey
- Tag Rugby
Net and Wall Games
Net and wall games involve sending an object over a net or against a wall so an opponent cannot return it. They build control, coordination, and tactical placement.
- Tennis
- Badminton
- Volleyball
Striking and Fielding Games
Striking and fielding games involve one team striking a ball to score runs while the other team fields to prevent scoring. These games develop batting, fielding, and teamwork skills.
- Cricket
- Rounders
Target Games
Target games involve players aiming to hit a specific target or area to score points. These games focus on accuracy, control, concentration, and strategy rather than speed or physical contact.
· Curling
· Dodgeball
· Golf
Games are a great way for pupils to develop a strong understanding of tactical awareness by learning how to read the game, anticipate opponents’ moves, and position themselves effectively. They build confidence in decision-making as they practise choosing the best options under pressure and adapting quickly to changing situations. Through collaborative activities, pupils strengthen their teamwork skills, communicate clearly and work towards shared goals. At the same time, they gain a solid understanding of rules and fair play, learning to respect officials, value honesty, and demonstrate good sportsmanship in every activity.
For more information, as well as ideas of different activities and resources you could use, check our Invasion Games activity guide.
3. Gymnastics
Gymnastics helps children develop key physical skills, including balance, coordination, strength, flexibility, and overall body control. Through structured practice, they learn to create and perform sequences that incorporate rolls, jumps, balances, and work with various apparatus. This area of physical education not only enhances technical abilities but also strongly supports physical literacy and builds confidence, allowing children to feel capable and confident in their movement.
For more information, as well as ideas of different activities and resources you could use, check our Gymnastics activity guide.
4. Dance
Dance is an important part of the primary PE curriculum, helping pupils develop creativity, rhythm and timing, expressive movement, and an understanding of different cultures. Children may explore a variety of styles, including creative dance, cultural dance traditions, and thematic dance inspired by topics such as space, weather, or stories. Beyond developing physical and artistic skills, dance also fosters inclusivity and encourages engagement, ensuring all learners can participate and enjoy expressing themselves through movement.
5. Athletics
Athletics covers a range of activities, including sprinting, distance running, relay races, long jump, and various throwing events. Through these activities, pupils develop key physical attributes such as speed, stamina, and technique, while also learning the values of healthy competition and personal improvement. Athletics provides children with opportunities to challenge themselves, refine their skills, and build confidence in their physical abilities.
6. Swimming and Water Safety
In England, swimming is a statutory requirement at the primary level under the National Curriculum.
Pupils are expected to:
- Swim at least 25 metres
- Use a range of strokes
- Perform safe self-rescue in water
Swimming is a life-saving skill and a critical element of a comprehensive primary curriculum PE programme.
7. Outdoor and Adventurous Activities (OAA)
Outdoor learning often involves activities such as orienteering, team-building challenges, problem-solving tasks, and trail-based exercises. These experiences in (OAA) help pupils develop important skills, including leadership, communication, resilience, and collaboration. Beyond physical and practical skills, OAA is especially effective at building confidence by providing children with opportunities to take initiative, work together, and overcome challenges in an engaging and supportive environment.
Knowledge and Understanding in Primary PE
Modern primary PE curriculums go beyond simply participating in physical activity. They focus on helping children understand rules and tactics, how exercise affects the body, the importance of warm-ups and cool-downs, and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Pupils also learn about personal fitness and why physical activity matters, ensuring they understand both the practical and theoretical aspects of PE.
For more guidance on creating a long-term primary PE curriculum, check out our blog.