Bishops Sports Performance and Wellness (SPW). The Physical Education part.

Physical education classes at Bishops are designed to promote the physical development of students in grades 8 and 9. These lessons are held once every two weeks and are overseen by SPW Strength & Conditioning (S&C) coaches. The focus of these sessions is on teaching fundamental movement skills and exercise techniques, with the aim of preventing injuries, improving training effectiveness, and enhancing sporting performance. Additionally, by introducing gym activities at an early age, students may develop a lifelong interest in maintaining physical health.

?Who attends PE lessons?

Gr 8 & 9 learners.

How often do learners attend PE?

Once every two weeks.

What takes place in PE? ?

Physical Literacy: Learners are taught fundamental movement skills (Squat, Hip Hinge, Lunge, Jump, etc.) and exercise techniques (Goblet + Back Squat, Bulgarian Split Squat, Deadlift, Bench Press, etc.). This information is reaffirmed and expanded on during their sport science theory classes which take place during their scheduled LO lessons.

?Resistance Training Program Implementation: Learners perform exercise programs, that comprise of the previously taught exercises & movement skills, under the supervision of the SPW S&C coaches.

Conditioning Games: Learners participate in activities, such as ultimate frisbee, link tag, netball, etc., that foster aspects of physical fitness, teamwork, coordination, reaction time, etc.

What are the benefits of exposing these learners to the gym as early as Gr 8?

Reduce the likelihood of them injuring themselves both in the gym and on the field/court.

Help them train more effectively.

Encourages them to take an interest in their own physical health.

Increases their likelihood of engaging in resistance training at a younger age.

Improves sporting performance.

Prepares them for senior sport, during which a certain proficiency in the gym is expected.

Will introducing weighted exercises to young learners hinder their growth?

Introducing weighted exercises to young learners can be both safe and beneficial, provided that it is done under appropriate guidance and supervision. At the Bishops gym, the SPW coaches prioritize teaching correct techniques in a supervised environment to minimize the risk of injury. During PE classes, we carefully monitor each participant's form and execution, stressing the significance of proper technique. By instilling these principles from an early age, we enhance their physical capabilities and encourage a culture of safety when these boys train independently and with their sports teams.