Thorncombe St Mary's
CE Primary Academy

At Thorncombe St Mary's CE Primary Academy, we believe that physical education plays a vital role in developing healthy, happy and confident children. Through our progressive PE curriculum, children develop their physical skills, teamwork, resilience and confidence while learning the importance of leading active and healthy lifestyles.

Children take part in two PE lessons each week, developing their skills through a wide range of activities including gymnastics, dance, athletics, games, cricket, football, tag rugby, netball, golf, orienteering and outdoor adventurous activities. They are encouraged to demonstrate teamwork, respect and good sportsmanship in both competitive and non-competitive situations.

Being active extends beyond PE lessons through our OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) approach. Every breaktime and lunchtime, children enjoy active, creative play that develops their gross motor skills, coordination and teamwork. Whether building dens, climbing, riding bikes and trikes, digging in the dig pit or dancing to music, children have countless opportunities to move, explore and play. We regularly listen to children's ideas and have enhanced our outdoor provision with additions such as music at breaktimes, bikes and trikes, a new climbing frame and loose parts.

We make the most of our local facilities and partnerships to enrich our curriculum. Children regularly use the Thorncombe Community Swimming Pool, take part in sporting festivals and competitions with other schools, benefit from specialist coaching and workshops, and Year 6 pupils enjoy a residential visit with outdoor adventurous activities.

We are proud to have achieved the School Games Gold Mark for several consecutive years, recognising our commitment to providing high-quality physical education and opportunities for every child to enjoy being active. Through PE, play and sport, we aim to inspire children to develop a lifelong love of physical activity.