At Brookhaven School, Physical Education is a key component of our holistic curriculum, promoting physical health, emotional wellbeing and personal development alongside academic achievement.
Through engaging, inclusive and challenging physical activities, students develop confidence, resilience, teamwork, leadership and communication skills that prepare them for healthy, active and independent lives beyond school.
Key Stage 3: building physical literacy
Our Key Stage 3 curriculum is built around the National Curriculum and develops students' physical literacy through a broad range of sporting activities, including invasion games, striking and fielding, athletics, gymnastics, dance, outdoor and adventurous activities, and health-related fitness.
Students progressively develop technical skills, tactical understanding, movement competence and the confidence to participate successfully in both individual and team activities. Alongside practical learning, students begin to understand the principles of health, fitness and performance, creating strong foundations for further study at Key Stage 4.
Key Stage 4: two routes
At Key Stage 4, the curriculum builds upon this foundation through two carefully designed curriculum routes, ensuring every student can access meaningful accreditation that reflects their strengths, aspirations and individual needs.
Whittle Brook Route
Leads to the OCR Entry Level Certificate in Physical Education (R463).
Castle Brook Route
Leads to OCR GCSE Physical Education (J587).
Both routes integrate practical performance with theoretical understanding, enabling students to develop their sporting ability whilst gaining knowledge of fitness, health, anatomy, physiology, psychology and the factors that influence participation and performance.
Reflective learners across all five years
Throughout all five years, practical participation is complemented by opportunities to evaluate performance, set personal goals, develop leadership skills and apply theoretical knowledge within practical contexts. Students are encouraged to become reflective learners who understand how physical activity contributes to lifelong health, wellbeing and personal success.
Sport beyond the school site
Learning extends beyond the school site through access to community-based sporting opportunities, including local gyms, leisure centres, swimming pools and inclusive sports programmes. Students also participate in competitive events and festivals through partnerships with organisations such as City in the Community, the Greater Manchester School Games, the Panathlon SEND Foundation and the Greater Manchester Inclusion Group. These experiences develop independence, confidence, teamwork and a sense of belonging whilst encouraging students to remain physically active beyond school.
Ultimately, the Physical Education curriculum equips students with the knowledge, skills and confidence to lead healthy, active and fulfilling lives. Whether progressing to further education, employment or community participation, students leave Brookhaven with the physical literacy, resilience and self-belief to continue enjoying the benefits of sport and physical activity throughout adulthood.
Want to know more?
Our PE team are always happy to talk about the curriculum and how it supports your child.
