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When most people think of gymnastics, they picture cartwheels, backflips, or elite athletes flying through the air. While those moments are undeniably impressive, they only scratch the surface of what gymnastics really offers, especially when it comes to physical education in schools.
At Primary Gymnastics Academy, we believe that gymnastics in physical education is about far more than tumbling. It is a powerful tool to build physical literacy, strength, agility, and coordination skills that form the foundation of a child’s lifelong relationship with movement and sport.
Let’s explore the true impact of gymnastics in PE and why it deserves a central role in every school’s curriculum.
Physical literacy is the ability to move confidently and competently in a range of physical activities. Gymnastics is one of the best ways to develop this, especially in KS1 and KS2. From rolls and jumps to balances and holds, children learn how to control their bodies in space, something that benefits all areas of sport and life.
With the right gymnastics session plan, even the most basic movements such as crawling, balancing or stretching can build a child’s confidence and competence in physical activity.
In every well-planned Key Stage 1 gymnastics or Key Stage 2 gymnastics session, students are challenged to use their whole body. Movements like bridges, handstands, and core holds develop strength in major muscle groups. At the same time, sequences and stations help children improve flexibility and coordination, all essential for both sport and general wellbeing.
At Primary Gymnastics Academy, we focus heavily on skill acquisition through structured planning, ensuring children make real progress with every lesson.
Overcoming challenges in gymnastics, whether it is holding a balance or mastering a roll, teaches resilience and self-belief. Children often surprise themselves with what they can achieve, and this boost in self-esteem naturally carries over to other areas of school life.
A common misconception is that gymnastics is only suitable for the very flexible or those with natural talent. In truth, it is accessible to everyone with the right teaching approach. Our gymnastics lesson plans are tailored to meet the needs of all learners, ensuring inclusive progression for every pupil.
With proper planning, supervision, and progressive teaching methods, gymnastics is very safe. Our programmes emphasise safe movement patterns, adequate use of mats and equipment, and age-appropriate challenges, all covered in our staff training and resources.
Tumbling is just one aspect. Gymnastics in PE includes balance, strength, posture, spatial awareness, and more. A well-rounded programme such as the ones we deliver at Primary Gymnastics Academy shows children that gymnastics is about total body control and personal growth, not just flashy moves.
Structured planning is key to effective delivery. Whether it is KS1 gymnastics or more advanced KS2 gymnastics, every unit should build skills progressively. Our gymnastics planning tools include clear learning outcomes, assessment checkpoints, and teaching cues so both pupils and staff know exactly what to focus on.
A strong gymnastics unit should include:
All of these are embedded in our comprehensive resources, ready for schools to implement.
Gymnastics supports movement fundamentals. Teaching pupils how to land safely, transition smoothly between movements, and explore rhythm lays the groundwork for success in other sports and encourages a lifelong love of physical activity.
You do not need elite facilities. Mats, benches, wall bars, and floor space are more than enough. Our lesson plans offer guidance on how to make the most of what you have, whether you are working in a spacious gym hall or a modest classroom space.
In both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, children develop at different paces. Our programmes include differentiation strategies to challenge confident movers while supporting those who need more time. We believe in progress for every child.
We take safety seriously. Our training materials and staff CPD focus on spotting techniques, risk assessment, and creating a safe learning environment, so gymnastics in PE is always delivered with confidence and care.
Children thrive on feedback. Our aligned assessment tools allow teachers to track progress clearly, set goals, and help pupils reflect on their achievements.
Mistakes are part of learning. Gymnastics naturally teaches perseverance and resilience. Through thoughtful reflection and encouragement, we help children see effort as the path to success.
The coordination and strength gained through gymnastics support success in all sports, from football to dance. It is an ideal base for physical development and a vital part of the PE curriculum.
Gymnastics in physical education is not just about tumbling. It is about building strong, confident, physically capable children through movement that is engaging, safe, and inclusive.
At Primary Gymnastics Academy, we are passionate about helping schools deliver high-quality gymnastics lessons through:
If you are ready to transform how gymnastics is delivered in your school, get in touch with us or explore our resources and services.
Let us help every child discover the joy of movement through every roll, jump and balance.
© 2024 RB Gym & Sport Ltd.
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