Physical Education (PE) is often seen as a break from the “real” learning that happens in the classroom. But this perception is outdated — and damaging. As primary school teachers in the UK, you’re on the front lines of shaping children’s attitudes toward health, movement, and self-confidence. To help you advocate for high-quality PE, let’s tackle some of the most persistent myths surrounding it.
❌ Myth 1: “PE is just about playing games and letting off steam.”
✅ Truth: PE is a structured subject with clear learning outcomes.
While it’s true that PE involves movement and fun, it’s far from aimless. The National Curriculum for PE in England outlines clear goals: developing competence in physical skills, sustaining physical activity, engaging in competitive sports, and leading healthy, active lives. Each lesson should build on knowledge and ability, just like in maths or literacy.
Within the PE Passport we provide lessons with clear progressive objectives.. take a look at some examples https://pepassport.co.uk/primary-pe-passport/pe-scheme-of-work/
❌ Myth 2: “Only sporty kids do well in PE.”
✅ Truth: Good PE supports all abilities, not just the athletic.
One of the great strengths of PE is its inclusivity when taught well. Whether a child struggles with coordination or excels in dance, there’s space for everyone to find success. A quality PE programme helps develop confidence, teamwork, resilience, and motor skills — critical skills that benefit all pupils.
The PE Passport has over 200 units of work to cover this https://pepassport.co.uk/primary-pe-passport/pe-scheme-of-work/uks2-scheme-of-work/
❌ Myth 3: “PE doesn’t support academic learning.”
✅ Truth: Physical activity boosts cognitive function and focus.
Numerous UK and global studies show a strong link between physical activity and academic performance. Regular movement improves memory, attention, and even behaviour. Active children are often better able to regulate emotions and concentrate in class — making PE an important ally in raising achievement.
Even better the PE Passport has several partners who support different areas in physical education – for example https://run-rings.co.uk/
❌ Myth 4: “We don’t need to focus much on PE in EYFS or Key Stage 1.”
✅ Truth: Early years are critical for building physical literacy.
Just like phonics lays the groundwork for reading, fundamental movement skills — like balance, agility, and coordination — form the foundation for all physical activity later in life. Skipping this development stage can hinder children’s confidence and long-term participation in sport and exercise.
Within the PE Passport we have various tools such as a fundamental movement skills tracker as well as specific scheme of work for EYFS such as https://eyfspeadventures.com/
❌ Myth 5: “We can skip PE if we’re short on time.”
✅ Truth: PE is a statutory subject and vital for wellbeing.
According to Ofsted and the Department for Education, PE is not optional. Reducing PE to make time for core subjects can be short-sighted. Especially post-COVID, when many children’s activity levels and social skills have declined, prioritising PE is more important than ever.
👩🏫 So What Can Primary Teachers Do?
- Create a clear curriculum map using PE lessons with clear objectives.
- Use inclusive approaches that value effort and improvement over competition.
- Champion PE in staff meetings and curriculum discussions.
- Collaborate with specialist PE teachers or local sports coaches when possible.
- Keep up with CPD — organisations like afPE, YST, and LPDS offer great resources.
💬 Final Thoughts
Debunking myths about PE starts with understanding its true value. As a primary teacher, you have the power to make physical education meaningful, inclusive, and fun. By treating PE with the same seriousness as other subjects, you help pupils develop habits and skills that will serve them for life — inside and outside the classroom.