Problematising Physical Education Practice: Pupil Experience as a Focus for Reflection

This paper uses comments from secondary school pupils about their physical education experience as the basis for a discussion of aspects of physical education practice. The form of the National Curriculum and the nature of the professional preparation of teachers are considered in terms of their potential effects upon effective provision for all pupils. The potential of reflective practice as a curriculum development tool is discussed. Aspects of their experience which are identified by pupils as contributing to their like or dislike of physical education are analysed. It is concluded that current provision does not necessarily provide equitable experience for all pupils and that improvements require critical reflection upon many aspects of practice, not only by teachers and schools but by other agencies concerned with physical education.