Physical Education (PE) plays a crucial role in the development of young minds and bodies, but is it being given the attention it truly deserves in UK primary schools? With an increasing focus on core academic subjects like Maths and English, there is growing debate on whether PE should be prioritised in the same way.
In this blog, we explore the benefits of PE, how it contributes to overall child development, and examine the views of parents and teachers in the UK to determine if PE should hold equal importance alongside the core subjects.
The Importance of Physical Activity in Learning
Physical activity is not just about improving fitness levels; it has a profound impact on cognitive function, emotional well-being, and academic performance. Numerous studies highlight the link between regular exercise and improved concentration, memory retention, and problem-solving abilities.
Real-World Insights: Parents & Teachers
We asked UK parents and teachers how they feel about the current prioritisation of PE in primary schools. The results were mixed, but a clear trend emerged: many believe PE should be valued just as highly as Maths and English.
According to a YouGov survey conducted for AfPE in 2021, 60% of primary school teachers stated that they felt physical education was not prioritised enough in schools. A staggering 70% of parents also agreed, with many noting that PE plays a vital role in their children's development, and should be recognised accordingly.
60% of primary school teachers feel PE is underprioritised (YouGov, 2021).
70% of parents believe PE should be treated equally with core subjects (YouGov, 2021).
Despite its proven benefits, PE has been steadily deprioritised in schools across the UK. The Youth Sport Trust reported that between 2017 and 2021, there was a 36% decline in PE time at secondary schools. Furthermore, research from the Sport and Recreation Alliance found that:
38% of secondary schools have cut back on PE hours in the past five years (Sport and Recreation Alliance).
Nearly 50% of pupils aged 11-16 do not meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity (Sport and Recreation Alliance).
This reduction in PE time is concerning, given the increasing rates of childhood obesity and mental health issues. The UK currently has one of the highest childhood obesity rates in Europe, with over 23% of Year 6 pupils classified as obese. With such alarming statistics, prioritising physical activity within the curriculum could be a crucial step in reversing these trends.
The Impact of PE on Children.
In an ideal world, primary education would offer a balance between academic learning and physical activity. PE isn't just about sport; it encourages teamwork, discipline, communication skills, and problem-solving. These skills are integral not only for a child's mental health but also their future success in various aspects of life.
Evidence from The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) shows that students who participate in physical activity regularly are more likely to achieve better academic results. In a study published by the EEF, it was noted that students who exercised had better self-esteem, were more engaged in school, and demonstrated improved classroom behaviour.
Physical activity has been linked to improved academic performance, behaviour, and engagement in school (The Education Endowment Foundation, 2018).
Parental Perspectives on PE
Parents are key stakeholders in their children's education, and their views on PE are telling. Research from the Association for Physical Education (AfPE) found that:
87% of parents believe PE is as important as Maths and English.
74% felt their child did not receive enough physical activity in school.
Only 42% of parents said they had actively spoken to their child's school about PE provision.
(AfPE)
This data suggests that while parents value PE, there is often a lack of communication between schools and families about how physical education is being delivered. If parents advocate more strongly for PE, schools may be more inclined to allocate greater time and resources towards it.
Barriers to Prioritising PE
Despite the clear benefits of PE, several challenges prevent it from being given equal status alongside Maths and English:
Curriculum Pressure
Schools face immense pressure to improve attainment levels in core subjects, often leading to an increased focus on Maths and English at the expense of PE.
Funding Shortages
A survey found that 95% of educators feel that insufficient funding affects student learning, with 23% specifically concerned about the ability to finance sports events, equipment, and extracurricular activities.
(The Sun)
Lack of Specialist PE Teachers
Many primary schools do not have dedicated PE teachers, meaning general classroom teachers—who may lack confidence or expertise in delivering PE—are responsible for teaching it. This can result in a lower-quality experience for students.
Inequalities in Access
Not all students have equal access to PE and sports opportunities. Research shows that children from disadvantaged backgrounds are less likely to participate in organised sports, leading to lower overall activity levels.
What We Believe Should Happen Now
Given the overwhelming evidence supporting the benefits of PE, how can we ensure that it is given the same priority as Maths and English?
Mandating Minimum PE Hours – The government could introduce a policy requiring a set number of weekly PE hours, ensuring all students receive consistent physical activity.
Increasing Funding for PE – Schools need additional funding for equipment, facilities, and specialised PE teachers.
Integrating PE with Other Subjects – Schools could incorporate movement-based learning strategies into subjects like Maths and Science, reinforcing academic concepts through physical activity.
Enhancing Parental Engagement – Schools should actively encourage parents to advocate for better PE provision, ensuring a collective push for change.
Conclusion
The argument for prioritising PE alongside Maths and English is backed by substantial research and statistics. While core academic subjects remain essential, a well-rounded education should also promote physical activity and well-being. The current imbalance in PE provision highlights the need for systemic changes in how schools value and integrate physical education into their timetables.
With rising concerns over childhood obesity, mental health, and declining fitness levels, now is the time to rethink the role of PE in schools. A future where PE is considered just as vital as Maths and English is not only possible—it is necessary for the health, happiness, and success of the next generation.
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