Too much PE?

[wigglybeezer]

The scottish government has decided that all primary school pupils have to do more PE; three sessions a week rather than two. All very good you might think, except for the fact that my boys now get art and music once a fortnight only. My two are particularly talented at art and enjoyed music and are generally fit and active (only a small minority of the kids are what I would call overweight). I feel very annoyed at the lack of commitment to art in schools (has always been thus, I fear).

Art and music generally filters into every subject at primary level so I think more PE is better. Children learn through play and as PE is generally game based, it is a good way to truly learn.

Ours are struggling to get even the two sessions. Many of the class teachers struggle to see PE as anything other than something which needs to be done by the peripatetic PE teacher, and as straight games.

At the DCs old school they managed to involve PE in just about every other subject. Perhaps it is hoped that with the new CfE and focus on active learning, teachers will manage to be more creative. Sadly I can't see that being the case at DCs school - but maybe.....

PE is not a good way to learn reading, writing, maths, history.

Art and music filters into every subject? I would disagree.

Many schools, community education depts and leisure centres offer an incredibly wide range of sports clubs for a very low price or for free.

'Active learning' is a buzz phrase that is virtually meaningless. When pushed to come up with a definition, someone in HMI said 'anything where the pupil is engaged in learning'. However, ask a different person ans they could come up with a completely different definition.

I wish more people would question it.

Exactly pointydog. Totally agree with you about 'active learning'.
If you do try to question it though you are made to feel like a fool!

Yes....they need art and music more than PE! I remember in primary we had a teacher who never let us do art and I was miserable!

You could suggest the school set up an art and craft club?

Cat....I have to disagree....all that running around is hell for some kids...I was one!

I never felt better or more able after PE...I usually felt down about my clumsiness and lack of skill!

I would have been happier painting or writing quietly.

My DD's primary school (not in Scotland), does PE every day.