“To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.” – Buddha

Physical Education in Launchpad is designed for the students to develop an interest in physical activities that will contribute to a healthy lifestyle which will support them not only during their time at Launchpad but also to guide students to make healthy life choices in the future. We believe that maintaining a healthy body through healthy eating and exercise will support students’ self-esteem and ability to learn.

NATIONAL CURRICULUM AIMS FOR KS3:

• To participate and enjoy physical activities.
• Ensure pupils are physically active for sustained periods of time.
• To work to ensure pupils lead healthy, active lives.
• To introduce pupils to various physical activities to encourage a physical activity they personally enjoy.

The sports and activities that we teach at KS3 Launchpad are boxing and boxfit at the excellent sports facility ‘Wildcard Boxing’. The objectives of this are, to improve body strength, to improve hand eye coordination, to decrease stress, improve body composition and discipline.

In the summer months we also introduce orienteering, using the local park as a course for the students to work on. The benefits of this include developing teamwork, working under pressure, improve cardiovascular function, increase time spent in nature and to have a sense of direction!

We also provide outdoor education sessions such as going to Rivington Pike, Manchester Skateboarding and Liverpool Water sports Centre. Outdoor education provides opportunities to develop positive relationships with the environment, others and ourselves through interaction with the natural world. These relationships are essential for the wellbeing and sustainability of individuals, society and our environment.

Dave Martin.

Senior Learning Assistant.