Health & Safety Considerations
- Screen all pupils for pre-existing conditions or injuries.
- Ensure shoelaces are tied, clothing is tucked in, and all jewellery is removed.
- Ensure the playing area is free of obstructions, trip hazards and dangerous objects.
- Ensure the playing area used is an adequate distance from walls and other fixed furniture, allowing a safety zone for pupils to slow down and stop when necessary.
- When using pair or group work, ensure their eyes are open and head up when moving in a condensed playing area.
- Remind pupils about safe, respectful tagging. Ensure that pupils do not grab or push each other, and that they use soft hands to gently tag their opponents, on the back of the torso between the hip and the shoulder. Explain clearly to pupils the correct way to tag safely.
- Many fundamental movement skills, particularly locomotor skills, can be strenuous in nature. Allow pupils the opportunity to rest or stretch at regular intervals during activities.
- For safety reasons encourage the concept of spatial awareness regularly. Invite pupils to imagine that they are inside a bubble, and if they touch anyone else, their bubble will burst.
- When using an implement, ensure pupils position themselves a safe distance back from the striker. Use cones / spot markers to identify safe zones and striking zones when necessary.
- The safety statement within the school plan should contain procedures to be adapted should accidents occur in the physical education lesson.
