PE at Larwood is carefully designed to be adaptive and inclusive, ensuring that every child — regardless of need or ability — can participate meaningfully and experience success. Lessons are structured around the individual needs of each student, with a strong emphasis on engagement, enjoyment, and the development of fundamental movement skills.
A core feature of Larwood’s PE provision is the flexible and responsive approach it takes in meeting the needs of its students. Children are offered a choice between more physically demanding activities—such as team sports, fitness circuits, or skill-based challenges—and calmer, alternative options like yoga, sensory walks, or mindfulness-based movement. These choices enable pupils to engage in activities that best match their emotional regulation needs, energy levels, and confidence on any day.
However, these options are made available only when appropriate, based on the professional judgement of staff and the needs of the group. This ensures that pupils are supported, not overwhelmed, and that the activities offered remain purposeful and safe. While alternative provisions are available throughout the year, the specific activities may vary depending on staffing, resourcing, and the needs of the cohort at that time.
Through this adaptable approach, all students are still able to work toward the fundamental goals of physical education, including improving coordination, balance, teamwork, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
The PE curriculum at Larwood has continued to evolve to meet the diverse needs of its students. A key development has been the introduction of swimming lessons as part of the wider curriculum. All Stevenage site students now can participate in swimming for a full term, giving them valuable time to build confidence in the water and develop essential life skills such as water safety and basic swimming techniques. The extended exposure helps students overcome initial anxieties, promotes resilience, and encourages a sense of achievement as they progress.
Through this adaptive and therapeutic approach to PE, Larwood aims not only to promote physical health and active lifestyles but also to nurture confidence, self-esteem, and emotional wellbeing. Every session is viewed as an opportunity for personal growth, social development, and the reinforcement of positive attitudes toward movement and healthy living.
