Physical Education

The PE Department encourages the development of body and mind through physical activity. The thriving PE culture, which extends to a vast range of extra-curricular activities, is facilitated by designated space within the School's single campus. Generous playing fields and astroturf provide an ideal environment for rugby, hockey, cricket, tennis and athletics, while indoor facilities include a swimming pool, games hall, squash court, weights and conditioning room and two gymnasia. The School is committed to maintaining its high level of provision through ongoing investment in facilities. The first phase of the redevlopment of the PE facilities commences in July '06 to meet the increasing demands of the department.

PE is taught throughout the Senior School, as an integral part of the timetable for S1 to S4, and as an optional subject for pupils in S5 and S6. In S1 and S2, PE consists of a variety of co-educational group activities, including swimming and gymnastics, together with dedicated games lessons, during which single-sex classes take part in rugby, hockey, cricket, tennis and athletics. In S3 and S4, pupils continue to follow a timetable of core activities which includes a variety of team games as well as fitness, athletics and racquet sports. Pupils who wish to continue PE in S5 and S6 choose their activities from a selection offered by staff, and in S6 pupils may use facilities on a purely recreational basis.

In addition to its role in developing commitment to physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle, Physical Education has been available as a certificate subject since 1990. Standard Grade PE is offered at Foundation, General and Credit levels, and pupils who achieve Credit level can go on to do Higher PE in S5 or S6. Particularly in the case of certificated courses, it is important to be aware of the theoretical, as well as the practical, content of Physical Education.