In a move to modernize and diversify school sports, the Oak National Academy has introduced new physical education (PE) resources for schools across England. The updated curriculum now incorporates unique and engaging activities such as parkour, pickleball, and korfball, alongside traditional sports like football and tennis. These additions aim to keep students active while sparking their interest in new, exciting forms of exercise and sport.
Parkour, or freerunning, is one of the standout inclusions. This sport, which gained formal recognition as an official sport in the UK in 2017, involves using natural terrain to navigate obstacles through running, jumping, and climbing. While most people associate parkour with urban settings—where practitioners leap across buildings and scale walls—the PE lessons will focus on adapting these techniques within school gyms, using equipment like vaults and beams. This provides students with a safe environment to try out the challenging yet exhilarating sport.
Pickleball, another new addition to the curriculum, is a racket sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. With its simple rules and fast-paced action, it’s gaining popularity worldwide and is seen as an excellent choice for students of all ages. Similarly, korfball, a sport similar to basketball and netball, will also be featured. These two sports add variety to the PE curriculum, offering something for everyone, from team-based games to individual challenges.
In addition to physical activities, the curriculum now includes lessons on online safety. With the rise of digital technology and the internet, it’s crucial for young students to learn about the potential risks online, such as cyberbullying, excessive screen time, and responsible social media use. Oak National Academy’s online safety lessons, designed for children as young as five, aim to equip students with the tools they need to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.
Matt Hood, the CEO of Oak National Academy, emphasized the importance of these new resources in helping to inspire the next generation of athletes, digital entrepreneurs, and artists. He believes that by offering a wide range of sports and digital skills, schools can create engaging lessons that not only entertain but also prepare children for life beyond the classroom. The inclusion of diverse activities, including both traditional and modern sports, ensures that every student can find something that resonates with their interests and abilities.
The new curriculum updates are expected to make PE lessons more dynamic and inclusive, while also addressing growing concerns around digital safety. The initiative has already received support from parents and educational leaders alike. Jason Elsom, CEO of Parentkind, applauded the inclusion of online safety education, noting that it aligns with parents’ growing concerns about children’s exposure to online risks. At the same time, educational leaders like Pepe Di’Iasio from the Association of School and College Leaders stressed the importance of schools maintaining flexibility in adapting these resources to meet the specific needs of their pupils.