Physical Development
Here at QEII School, we understand that learning as well as therapy happens everywhere which is why we place emphasis on the need to juxtapose traditional classroom based learning with more practical approaches such as;
Swimming
All of our students have the opportunity to swim at school in our hydro pool or at the local community pool in town. They are supported by staff as well as a trained instructor to progress and improve on their skill or simply to help with daily physiotherapy exercises.
Rebound
Rebound therapy as well as trampoline sessions take place weekly to support not only fitness but also sensory needs alongside physio development. The sessions take place in our studio and are also used to aid learning in other areas of the curriculum too.
Horse Riding
Students in the primary department have the opportunity to attend riding lessons at local RDA’S (Riding for the Disabled Association) Riding Therapy is known to improve confidence, co-ordination, self-esteem and fitness. But above all, it is fun for those taking part. Riding Therapy participants can enjoy the experience of riding, giving them the chance to be independent. The team at the RDA alongside our staff help the students with attention, concentration and sensory movement. Horse riding improves motor skills, self-esteem and confidence. Other benefits include muscle development, improved co-ordination and increased strength and balance.
Forest Schools
All classes will have the opportunity for learning ’outside’ through our very own Forest Schools programme that takes place in its’ own designated garden at school. Activities within the forest school will be varied, diverse and numerous but the emphasis is on trying to create independent learners who are inspired to try out their own ideas, explore their own interests and to attempt new ideas. Some of our planned activities include:-Shelter building, fire lighting, tool use, Studying wildlife, sensory activities and cooking on an open fire amongst many others.
Physical Education
We believe a high quality PE curriculum should be an integral part of the whole school curriculum. Through PE & Sport our students learn to develop the important qualities of fine and gross motor skills, communication, team work, ambition, competition, healthy lifestyle, overall wellbeing and involvement in the community - leading to improved concentration, fun and success for the future.
A high quality PE curriculum will develop physical numeracy and literacy and will allow pupils to learn about themselves; the importance of a healthy lifestyle, self-expression and concepts such as fair play and respect. It also contributes to the development of a range of important cognitive skills such as making decisions and social skills such as teamwork and communication.
Our diverse and inclusive PE curriculum aims to ensure that all pupils develop skills that are fundamental to all sports and to develop these through participation opportunities and personal physical programmes linked to therapies such as the use of our hydro pool, rebound therapy and the ‘Motomed’ bike. The curriculum is varied throughout the school, not only focusing on national curriculum guidelines and the use of ‘cornerstones’ curriculum, but also by offering a wider range of fantastic opportunities such as Forest Schools, horse riding and rebound to all, wellbeing and relaxation, with our Sixth Form having options of being involved in regularly accessing sports choices in the community such as swimming, golf, basketball, football and ‘team sports’ at our link college, ‘Collyer’s’.
We are improving our programme of intra and inter school competitions which will provide opportunities for pupils to participate in competitive sports and activities both in and beyond the curriculum. Alongside this our students get amazing opportunities to try other sports including wheelchair basketball, kung-fu, yoga, golf and cycling, also participating in a full packed ‘sports week’ of activities and inclusive sports day.