Update from PE Department for parents/guardians

Dear Parents/Guardians,

We are writing to you to briefly outline some changes St. Farnan’s P.E. Department is introducing in regard to the participation guidelines in PE class.

Physical activity provides both physical and mental health benefits for adults and children. When children learn to develop a healthy and active lifestyle at a young age, they are less likely to be overweight or to develop negative health consequences later in life. Studies have also shown that active teenagers achieve higher academically than their inactive peers. We strive as physical educators to instill a healthy attitude towards exercise and activity in students in our care.

Our aim for maximum participation led us to developing a policy for participation. The environment we strive to achieve is one of inclusion for everyone. Students with disabilities, students with mild injuries and students who do not like physical activity or might deem themselves to have less athletic ability are required and invited to participate and enjoy PE. We aim to create an atmosphere where everyone has equal involvement and can contribute while participating in sports/ activities that are modified and appropriate for all skill levels and abilities.

In order to enhance and develop the learning environment and ensure an experience which is to the benefit of student wellbeing, the following guidelines are being introduced;

• A PE tracksuit is available and can be worn into school on the day that the student has PE.
• If a student has a health issue, cold etc, which reduces their ability to participate, they will still be asked to participate to the best of their ability.
• If a student has an injury, they must bring a note from their parent/ guardian stating the nature of their injury. Parents are also welcome to email details of the injury prior to the PE class. The student can participate in the lesson to the best of their ability. The PE teacher will modify their lessons so that if possible, a suitable role will be given to the student with the injury. If the student feels discomfort during any part of the class they will be able to opt out of that activity.
• If a student has an injury which makes it unsafe to participate (broken limb etc.) the student will participate by learning the theory element of the class.
• We differentiate all our lessons according to ability and/or disability to ensure inclusion for all.

To view the PE department participation policy in full or if you would like to see what PE activities are available in St Farnan’s, please go to our website, www.stfarnans.ie press the link for teaching and then subject departments. If you have any queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the PE department. We very much appreciate in advance your support with these new guidelines.