1st Edition

Professional Knowledge in Primary Physical Education

By Vicky Randall Copyright 2026
178 Pages 2 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

178 Pages 2 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

This book is a concise and practical guide to the development of professional knowledge in primary physical education. Covering core concepts and key skills and exploring the everyday reality of working in primary physical education (PE), the book describes the essential professional knowledge needed to become an effective PE teacher at the primary level. Placing a strong emphasis on inclusive... Read more

Lists of Figures

List of Tables

Series Foreword

Foreword

Preface

Acknowledgements

 

Chapter 1 The Importance of Knowing in Primary Physical Education

 

Part One: The Emerging Professional

Chapter 2 The Emerging Professional in Primary Physical Education

Chapter 3 Fundamental Movement Skills and the Developing Child

Chapter 4 Planning for Effective Learning

Chapter 5 Observing Practice

 

Part Two: The Secure Professional

Chapter 6 Becoming Secure in Your Knowledge

Chapter 7 Activities for Learning

Chapter 8 Risk and Challenge

Chapter 9 Inclusive Approaches

Chapter 10 Working with Others in Primary Physical Education

 

Part Three: The Aspiring Professional

Chapter 11 The Subject Specialist Practitioner

Chapter 12 Whole School Approaches to Movement

Chapter 13 Assessment and Learning

Chapter 14 Advocacy of Primary Physical Education

 

Index

Biography

Vicky Randall is an educator, researcher and consultant in physical education. She holds fellowships with the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) and the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA) and serves as Visiting Associate Professor at the University of Gloucestershire. A dedicated advocate for mental health and well-being, she is an ambassador for Stormbreak CIO, a UK charity supporting children’s mental health, and is a long-standing member of the Cross-Party Parliamentary Group on a Fit and Healthy Childhood. Vicky has published widely in Physical Education, including two Routledge texts, An Introduction to Primary Physical Education and Contemporary Issues in Primary Physical Education.

"Professional Knowledge in Primary Physical Education is an important book that is focused on the complex nature of teaching primary physical education. Vicky Randall takes a broad view of these complexities by offering a useful and accessible framework for understanding different ways professional knowledge can be interpreted and enhanced. Teachers at all career stages would benefit from this valuable work."

Tim Fletcher, Professor, Brock University, Canada

"This book captures the essence, ethos, and practical dimensions of teaching primary physical education. It is a valuable addition to any core reading list, equally relevant for trainee teachers and experienced practitioners. Key concepts are thoughtfully introduced, underpinned by theory, and clearly connected to current best practices. Accessible and engaging, this text offers insightful guidance for educators at every stage of an educator’s career."

Dr Alison Morag Murray, Primary Health and Wellbeing/Physical Education Teacher Educator, University of Stirling, UK

"This book contains an impressive and extensive overview of professional knowledge in primary physical education, presented in an accessible and thought-provoking structure. It is an excellent resource for everyone involved in providing meaningful learning experiences for children in primary physical education. Contributions from international scholars and practitioners in the field, recommended and suggested readings and opportunities for reflection extend the book beyond just the presented chapters."

Maura Coulter, Associate Professor Primary Physical Education, School of Arts Education and Movement, Institute of Education, Dublin City University, Ireland

“This book does give a comprehensive overview of the key areas of knowledge required by primary PE practitioners and would be a good resource to check and reinforce principles and understanding, especially around FMS, inclusion and assessment. It would also be useful for colleagues to dip into when considering possible areas for professional development or improvement. I would recommend it to newly qualified practitioners looking to enhance or supplement their primary PE delivery and to more experienced colleagues looking for ideas to further support their subject development and understanding.”

Suzanne Flint, Loughborough University, Physical Education Matters