The Vital Role of PE in Shaping Young Lives
Across the UK, there are countless dedicated individuals working tirelessly in schools, Active Partnerships, and the private sector to inspire young people to enjoy and engage with physical education (PE). Their efforts are not only admirable—they are essential. But despite their dedication, one thing continues to surface in conversations, podcasts, and blogs: PE still isn’t taken seriously enough by those in positions of power.
“Every Child, Every Week, Every Year… No Negotiation”
This message was brought into sharp focus on a recent episode of the PE Insights Podcast, hosted by Nathan Walker, featuring Kate Thornton-Bousfield, CEO of the Association for Physical Education (AfPE). In a compelling conversation, Kate raised a critical concern: in some schools, PE is being sidelined, with students being pulled out of lessons for maths and English interventions.
Her stance is clear: PE should not be optional. It must be a non-negotiable part of every child’s education. As she powerfully put it:
“Every Child, Every Week, Every Year… No Negotiation.”
We couldn’t agree more.
A Crucial Time for Change
The good news? Change is coming. AfPE, along with other passionate individuals and organisations, is doing incredible work to advocate for PE’s rightful place in the curriculum. With the curriculum assessment review due to be published in full soon, we’re hopeful that this momentum leads to real, lasting improvements in how PE is valued and delivered in schools.
How ActivAll Can Support PE Engagement
While we await broader systemic changes, schools and educators still face the daily challenge of engaging all young people in physical activity—especially those who are reluctant or lacking in confidence. That’s where ActivAll can help.
A Fun and Inclusive Start to PE
ActivAll is a fun, innovative playground equipment solution for schools that can be used at the beginning of a PE lesson for 10–15 minutes as a warm-up. It’s fast, fun, and gets the endorphins flowing—helping students feel energised and positive before diving into the rest of the session.
Bridging the Gap for Reluctant Participants
For young people who may not enjoy traditional sport or exercise, ActivAll offers an accessible and non-intimidating way to participate. The games are designed to be enjoyable and inclusive, accommodating all fitness levels and abilities.
Making PE Enjoyable for Everyone
At its core, ActivAll is about making movement fun. It removes the pressure of competition and skill, replacing it with laughter, teamwork, and encouragement. That’s exactly what many students need to start seeing PE in a new light.
Want to Learn More?
To discover the many ways ActivAll can support your PE provision, get in touch via www.activall.co.uk or follow the conversation online:
@PEInsights
#AfPE #ActivAll #PEInsights #GetKidsMoving #PhysicalEducation #playgroundequipmentforschools
”"I would highly recommend ActivAll to any school looking to inspire their pupils to be more active in an enjoyable and inclusive way."
Karen Thomlinson, St Walburga`s Catholic Primary School, Bournemouth
