PE funding
Pashley Down Infant School is proud to have been awarded the Gold Quality Start Award this year, recognising our commitment to high-quality PE provision in the early years. This award celebrates our efforts to promote active lifestyles, deliver engaging and inclusive PE lessons, build strong links with local sports clubs, and provide opportunities for pupils to participate in a wide range of sporting activities.
This year, our teaching staff participated in yoga CPD as part of our ongoing professional development. Additionally, coaches from Eastbourne Borough Football Club supported one PE lesson per week for two terms. This collaboration enriched our PE curriculum, introduced new teaching strategies, and helped pupils enhance their football skills. The coaches also engaged with children during playtimes, leading games and skill-building activities.
All pupils took part in Bikeability sessions delivered by the Bikeability Trust. KS1 children improved their cycling skills, with some learning to ride without stabilisers. Many now cycle to school regularly. In EYFS, children were introduced to balance bikes and continue to develop their skills through weekly sessions using the school’s own equipment.
Year 2 pupils attended swimming sessions at Ocklynge, supporting both their physical development and their transition to Year 3. They also participated in dance workshops led by a qualified dance coach, which complemented their curriculum and introduced them to new forms of physical expression.
This year, pupils represented the school at Gymnastics, Football, and Handball festivals with other Eastbourne schools. EYFS pupils attended a Multiskills festival in the summer term, and for the first time, Year 1 pupils took part in the Let’s Dance show at the Hippodrome Theatre. They learned a choreographed routine with a dance teacher and performed in front of an audience, including their families.
Our annual whole-school sports day at Ocklynge featured a variety of age-appropriate activities. KS1 pupils also participated in inter-class races. Certificates and medals were awarded to celebrate both achievement and sportsmanship.
We continue to promote regular physical activity through purposeful play at break times. Our Forest School provision has expanded, with all pupils taking part in Woodland Wednesdays – engaging in outdoor learning, using tools, cooking, and spending time around the fire.
To encourage active travel, pupils who walk, scoot, or cycle to school at least once a week receive a special badge each month. Many families have proudly collected the full set this year.
