Latest News
Weeky challenges earn PE award
Posted: 7th July 2020Weekly sporting challenges throughout lockdown have earned national recognition.
Pupils at Roydon Primary Academy have continued to take part in PE sessions, despite the Coronavirus crisis seeing the majority learning from home.
Since March, pupils have been set weekly challenges to keep them active, including –
- running week – with guidance on the correct way to run to avoid injuries
- bike riding – pupils encouraged to use scooters and bikes, with safety instructions
- fitness week – with tips on using the right techniques
- skipping week – along with other BMAT schools, pupils set challenge to skip as much as they could in a week
- virtual sports day – pupils planned and competed in their own sports days
As a result of the work, the school has not only retained the School Games Mark Gold award for the fifth year, but has also secured the School Games Virtual Award.
PE teacher Elaine Luscombe said: “I am very passionate about ensuring every child has the opportunity to find some form of fitness they will love. Children should be able to learn and develop skills and fitness in a way that is enjoyable which, in turn, will encourage life participation in sports and fitness.
“The importance of exercise during lockdown is paramount. Exercise is an important lifestyle factor as it supports the immune function. There are also a number of proven mental and emotional benefits of being physically active, including developing stronger resilience, having higher self-esteem, along with a sharper memory and thinking skills.”
A recorded sports assembly is shared with pupils each week to celebrate their efforts.
The school is part of the Harlow School Games and each year takes part in a range of sporting competitions in the town.
The work has seen the school secure the School Games Mark Gold award for four years, qualifying it to now apply for the Platinum award.
The School Games is a programme designed to keep competitive sport at the heart of schools and provide young people with opportunities to compete and achieve their personal best.
The School Games Mark rewards schools for commitment to and development of competition, school sport and physical education.
