An Inspiring Day with AfPE
Yesterday, 4th July 2025, we had the absolute pleasure of being invited to a Business Associates Conference by the Association for Physical Education (AfPE).
ActivAll has been a Business Associate of AfPE for a few years, but this was the first conference we have attended – and what an eye-opening, inspirational day it was!
Exciting New Leadership at AfPE
There have recently been changes within AfPE, including the appointment of a new CEO, Kate Thornton-Bousfield, last year, as well as other new staff members who bring a wealth of expertise to the subject of Physical Education.
A Surprising Realisation
Yesterday’s conference was extremely thought-provoking. One key thing that stood out is the fact that although AfPE are absolute experts in PE and have been around since 2006, many PE teachers and ECTs don’t even know they exist.
We at ActivAll want to change that and shout very loudly to all our ActivAll schools, followers, and visitors to our website that this organisation is an absolute essential group to be a part of.
Why Every School Should Know About AfPE
AfPE are on the pulse of any policy changes and offer a wealth of CPD and support to help schools improve the quality of their PE offer. Their expertise is second to none, and they are here to help schools deliver better PE, consistently and confidently.
Positive Change is Coming
There are going to be many positive changes coming from government and the DfE around PE. For too many years, this essential subject has been overlooked and undervalued in some schools.
For example, leading up to SATs, some schools will sacrifice PE lessons to fit in extra revision classes. We’ve even heard of children having physiotherapy appointments during their PE lesson time.
AfPE’s Message: No More Excuses
This is something AfPE are absolutely fighting to change. Their mission statement about PE says it all:
“Every Child, Every Week, Every Year – no excuses!”
The Evidence is Clear
The effectiveness of physical activity is not up for debate – the evidence is out there. It’s a no-brainer: healthy children are happier children, and happier children are better equipped to learn.
Get Ready – PE Could Become a Core Subject
Changes are coming, and schools need to be ready. There are consultations currently taking place about making Physical Education a core subject.
A curriculum review is also underway, and we know that PE and sport are being looked at seriously. Positive changes are almost certainly on the horizon.
Let’s Raise the Profile of PE – Together
We left the conference feeling motivated, hopeful, and determined to help raise awareness of the important role PE plays in every child’s education.
To benefit from the support AfPE has to offer please go to their website www.afpe.org.uk
#EveryChildEveryWeekEveryYear #AssociationforPhysicalEducation #AfPE #QualityPE #CorePE
