Five Strong Reasons to Prioritise Gymnastics in Primary Schools

Why Gymnastics in Primary Schools Matters More Than Ever

In an era where screens dominate and playgrounds are underused, gymnastics in primary schools has become more important than ever. With schools under increasing pressure to enhance physical literacy and overall well-being, gymnastics stands out as a powerful, inclusive, and developmentally rich part of the PE curriculum.

At Primary Gymnastics Academy, we believe that gymnastics offers unmatched physical and emotional benefits for young children, whether you're a teacher looking to enrich your PE lessons or a school leader aiming to meet Ofsted benchmarks more effectively.

Gymnastics Boosts Physical Literacy and Coordination in Children

Gymnastics is a foundational sport that develops core motor skills like balance, strength, agility, and coordination. By regularly engaging in gymnastics:

• Children gain body awareness and spatial understanding.
• Movement skills such as jumping, rolling, landing, and balancing become second nature.
• These essential abilities help children excel in all physical activities, not just gymnastics.

By embedding gymnastics early, schools help children move with confidence, competence, and control across all areas of physical education.

Kids Gymnastics Enhances Mental Well-being and Confidence in Young Learners

Participating in gymnastics helps children:

• Overcome challenges through trial and error.
• Build resilience, persistence, and a growth mindset.
• Celebrate personal improvement, rather than compete with others.

When a child lands their first cartwheel or perfects a forward roll, their sense of achievement and self-esteem skyrockets. It creates a safe space where effort is rewarded and every child can succeed.

How Gymnastics Supports National Curriculum and KS1/KS2 Physical Education Goals

The UK national curriculum highlights the need to:

• Develop agility, balance, and coordination.
• Perform sequences and movements with control and fluency.
• Master basic movements and apply them in different ways.

Gymnastics hits all these targets - and more. It also prepares children for future physical challenges and supports cross-curricular links (e.g., maths through sequencing, or literacy through movement stories).

Our structured lesson plans at Primary Gymnastics Academy are specifically designed to help teachers meet PE objectives for both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.

Gymnastics Lessons Encourages Inclusive, Non-Competitive Participation

Not all children thrive in team sports. Some may feel overwhelmed by the pressure or lack the confidence to compete. Gymnastics provides a:

• Safe, non-competitive environment where children progress at their own pace.
• A platform for children with additional needs (SEN) to build strength and coordination in a supportive way.
• Variety of activities so every child feels valued and engaged, no matter their ability level.

At Primary Gymnastics Academy, we champion inclusive programming where every child belongs.

Gymnastics For Kids Lays the Foundation for Lifelong Healthy Habits

By integrating gymnastics early, children:

• Learn to enjoy physical movement from a young age.
• Develop core strength, balance, and posture - vital for desk-bound classroom life.
• Are encouraged to replace screen time with active time.

Ultimately, gymnastics sets the stage for lifelong engagement in physical activity, whether children continue as gymnasts or simply enjoy a more active, healthy lifestyle.

How Primary Gymnastics Academy Supports Gymnastics in Primary Schools

We offer a complete gymnastics solution for schools:

• Structured, curriculum-aligned lesson plans for KS1 and KS2.
• Qualified coaches to deliver engaging and safe gymnastics sessions.
• Staff training and CPD programmes for teachers.
• Assessment tools and progress tracking systems.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your gymnastics programme, we're here to help with tailored solutions to fit your school's needs.

Make Gymnastics a Core Part of Your Primary PE Strategy

The benefits of gymnastics in primary schools go far beyond simple physical activity. From boosting confidence and coordination to aligning with national education goals, gymnastics is a must-have component of a well-rounded school curriculum.

Contact Primary Gymnastics Academy Today

Ready to elevate your PE curriculum and empower your students through gymnastics?

Contact us today to learn more about our:

• In-school coaching programmes
• Gymnastics CPD for teachers
• Custom lesson plans and assessments