• 1 hour 1 minute
    Under the Umbrella with Dr Gerald Griggs - The Real Purpose of Primary PE

    In this episode of The PE Umbrella podcast I am joined by Dr Gerald Griggs for a thought-provoking conversation about what meaningful learning in primary PE really looks like.

    Together, we explore how we can create lessons that are more than just physically active, considering how children think, connect, grow in confidence and, most importantly, enjoy the experience of learning through movement.

    We discuss what progression really means in primary PE, why periods of struggle or plateau can actually be valuable learning opportunities, and how some of the routines or practices we use with the best intentions may unintentionally exclude certain children from fully engaging.

    We also reflect on the purpose of primary PE within the wider curriculum, question whether schemes of work should be viewed as a guide rather than a script, and explore how creative, unconventional approaches can help children develop skills in more meaningful ways.

    As the conversation unfolds, we touch on an idea close to the heart of The PE Umbrella: have we become too focused on the physical aspects of PE, while overlooking the equally important cognitive, social and emotional experiences that shape children's lifelong relationship with movement?

    Whether you're a class teacher, PE lead or simply passionate about giving children the very best experiences in PE, this episode is packed with ideas to challenge your thinking and inspire your practice.

    So what are you waiting for? Come and join us under The PE Umbrella

    12 July 2026, 5:30 am
  • 51 minutes 29 seconds
    Under the Umbrella with Dr Cameron Van der Smee - Why Primary PE Must Be Learning-Focused

    On this episode of The PE Umbrella Podcast I am joined by lecturer of Health and Physical Education at Deakin University, Cameron Van der Smee.

    Amongst many things, we delve into the essence of great primary physical education, emphasising a learning-focused approach, engaging lessons, and the impact of negative experiences on student engagement.

    The conversation covers inclusive teaching strategies, the wider learning in physical education, managing a wide range of abilities, quick fire tips, and the long-term impact of physical education on students. As always, there's something for everybody, whatever capacity you hold in the Primary PE space across the world.

    So what are you waiting for? Come on over and join us under the umbrella.

    5 July 2026, 5:00 am
  • 52 minutes 11 seconds
    Under the Umbrella with Gareth Williams - Building Inclusive Primary PE That Every Child Can Enjoy

    On this episode of The PE Umbrella podcast I am joined by primary PE teacher and founder of Play Folke, Gareth Williams.

    The conversation covers Gareth's journey to teaching, the concept of Playfolke and changing perceptions of PE. Key takeaways include the importance of inclusive and engaging primary PE, building confidence in teaching PE, and the significance of relationship-building.

    If you're looking for practical advice, look no further. What are you waiting for? Come and join me under the umbrella.

    28 June 2026, 5:00 am
  • 1 hour 6 minutes
    Under the Umbrella with Damian Hughes - The Key to Creating High-Performance Environments in PE

    On this special episode of The PE Umbrella podcast, I am joined by best-selling author and co-host of the enormously successful High Performance podcast, Damian Hughes.

    In this conversation, Damian and I discuss the power of consistency, the definition of high performance, the concept of the say-do gap, and the building of confidence and resilience in children. We also talk about the power of feedback, the importance of challenge and failure, and creating a culture of kindness and acceptance.

    Above all, this conversation is grounded in the art of the possible, for those who work in schools every day. This is a truly remarkable conversation and learning opportunity that you can't afford to miss, so what are you waiting for? Come on over and join me under the umbrella.

    Don't forget to check out the School Coat Charity below.

    www.theschoolcoatcharity.co.uk

    21 June 2026, 5:00 am
  • 58 minutes 11 seconds
    Under the Umbrella with Vicky Randall - The Four 'C's for Enhancing Movement Skills in Primary PE

    In this episode of The PE Umbrella podcast I am joined by Education research consultant, Vicky Randall.

    This episode discusses the topic of movement competence and delves into fundamental movement skills, transitional movement skills, the proficiency barrier, the impact of upbringing on movement competency, transitional movement skills in PE lessons, and signs of progress in movement learning. We also explore practical ways to support movement development in lessons, emphasising the importance of repetition and simplification.

    So what are you waiting for? Come on over and join us under the umbrella.

    Get that note pad and pen at the ready!

    14 June 2026, 5:00 am
  • 49 minutes 39 seconds
    Under the Umbrella with Dr Tom Quarmby - One Routine Change That Makes PE a Safer Space for Pupils

    In this episode of The PE Umbrella podcast I am joined by reader in PE & sport pedagogy at the Carnegie School of Sport, Dr Tom Quarmby

    The conversation explores trauma-informed practice in primary PE, discussing the impact of trauma on children's behaviour and the role of physical education in supporting pupils who have experienced trauma. Tom shares insights on trauma, its manifestations, and the principles of trauma-aware practice in PE.

    We also delve into facilitating and responding to youth voice, creating routines and structures, and reframing competition in a trauma-informed way. This is a conversation you can't afford to miss.

    So what are you waiting for? Come on over and join us under the umbrella.

    7 June 2026, 5:00 am
  • 51 minutes 2 seconds
    Under the Umbrella with Rhys Meredith - Primary PE, Done Better

    In this episode of The PE Umbrella podcast I am joined by Elementary Physical Education Teacher at the American International School of Budapest, Rhys Meredith

    The conversation explores the key elements of great primary PE, focusing on student voice, choice, and meaningful experiences. It delves into the concept of just right challenges, student autonomy, and the impact of student feedback. The discussion also addresses the challenges of implementing student-centered approaches within the constraints of existing PE schemes and the importance of giving students agency in their learning.

    So what are you waiting for? Come on over and join us under the umbrella

    31 May 2026, 5:00 am
  • 54 minutes 32 seconds
    Under the Umbrella with Matt Magowan - Why Your PE Lessons Might Be Missing a Critical Element

    In this episode of The PE Umbrella podcast I am joined by primary PE teacher at the United Nations international school of Hanoi, Matt Magowan

    In this episode we explore what excellent primary PE looks like, including show favourite questions from years gone by. The conversation covers the importance of transitions in PE lessons, the concept of student agency and choice in learning, effective classroom management and structure, and the significance of personal relevance in learning. Matt shares insights and strategies related to these themes, providing valuable takeaways for everybody working in the primary PE space.

    So what are you waiting for? Come on over and join us under the umbrella.

    24 May 2026, 5:00 am
  • 53 minutes 14 seconds
    Under the Umbrella with Josh Candy - The Imagination-Driven Approach That Transforms Early Years PE

    This week I am joined by Josh Candy joins me for another conversation on all things Physical Development.

    In this podcast episode, the conversation covers the definition of physical development in early years, the transition from secondary to primary PE, the distinction between PE, sport, and physical activity, the role of sports in PE lessons, and the importance of creating a consistent environment for PE lessons in early years.

    So what are you waiting for? Come on over and join us under the umbrella.

    17 May 2026, 5:00 am
  • 44 minutes 24 seconds
    Under the Umbrella with Dominique Chiquet - The Power of Play-Based Learning in Physical Development

    This week, Dominique Chiquet (founder of the motor skill learning academy in Switzerland) joins me for a conversation on all things Physical Development.

    This conversation delves into the philosophy and practical application of physical development in the early years, emphasizing the importance of exposure to diverse movement experiences. It explores the balance between structure and free exploration, the role of stories and make-believe, and the development of other skills beyond physical development.

    So what are you waiting for? Come on over and join us under the umbrella.

    10 May 2026, 5:00 am
  • 50 minutes 37 seconds
    Under the Umbrella with Dr Shane Pill

    In this conversation of The PE Umbrella podcast, Shane Pill and I discuss the key elements of great physical education, including pedagogical content knowledge, challenges for general primary teachers, and the impact of previous generations on physical competencies.

    Shane also explores the game-based approach and the importance of designing the environment for play, providing valuable insights for educators and specialists in the field of physical education.

    So what are you waiting for, come and join us Under the PE Umbrella.

    3 May 2026, 5:30 am
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