What is Physical Education (PE)?

What is Physical Education?

 The meaning and definition of physical education is different from that of sport and general physical activity but can often be confused with both. 

 Physical Education is a planned, progressive learning for all children that takes place within the school curriculum. It involves both ‘learning to move’ (becoming physically competent) and ‘moving to learn’ (e.g., learning wider skills and competencies such as communication with others). The context for the learning is physical activity, with pupils experiencing a wide range of activities, including sports, dance, and outdoor and adventurous activities.

To define physical education meaning clearly, it is important to show how it differs from just playing sports or being active - it’s about learning through movement. 

When we are asking what is PE, there are several defining characteristics. 

• Educational - It's not just about being physically active or playing; it's about learning to move and learning through movement.
• Structured curriculum – PE follows a curriculum with specific learning outcomes covering a broad range of activities.
• Development of the whole child: This includes developing physical competency, gaining knowledge, and developing values like teamwork, fair play, and honesty.
• Taught by qualified professionals: Delivered by trained PE teachers or Primary School teachers, not an activity leader or sports coach.

The meaning of physical education can often be confused with physical activity or sport, so how is it different?

• Physical activity - A broad term that refers to any bodily movement that burns energy, including PE, sport, dance and gymnastics, but can also include a wider range of activities such as walking, cycling, outdoor play, housework or gardening.
•  Sport - Competitive, rule-governed physical activities, often focused on performance and results rather than education.

Physical Education in Schools

Most schools worldwide must teach PE to children at both primary and secondary levels.  It is good to look at what is PE education around the world, including here in England.  The National Curriculum in England gives aims, subject content and attainment targets to guide teachers’ planning.  It covers specific areas that should be taught, such as being able to run, jump and catch, as well as some suggested activities and sports in which these movements can be developed and learnt.

Download our slide, which covers the meaning of physical education in a concise and condensed way.