Students’ Perceived Competence to Teach Physical Education to Children Aged 7 to 11 Years in England

Abstract

This study investigated students’ perceived competence to teach the National Curriculum for Physical Education (NCPE) to children aged 7 to 11 years old in England. Subjects were 24 students enrolled on a one year Postgraduate Certificate of Education course (PGCE). Four questionnaires were administered throughout the year of their training. Details were obtained of students’ prior experiences and attitudes towards physical education. All physical education lessons taught by students were self evaluated. A sample was observed to see if levels of perceived competence matched actual competence to teach. The majority of students left the course perceiving themselves to be competent to plan, teach and evaluate athletic activities, games, gymnastics and dance. Students’ prior experiences, and opportunities to teach affected their perceived competence to teach games and athletic activities. University courses were influential in increasing students’ perceived competence to teach dance and gymnastic activities. The majority of students perceived themselves as needing additional support to teach outdoor and adventurous activities and swimming. This has implications for identifying the needs of primary school teachers in continuing professional development in physical education.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Sue Chedzoy

Sue Chedzoy is with the School of Education, University of Exeter, UK. 104