UoG experts help to improve Physical Education curriculum for benefit of teachers and young people

Three University of Gloucestershire academics have been invited by the Association for Physical Education (AfPE) to contribute their professional expertise to the development of a refreshed national curriculum for Physical Education that is fit for the future.

Dr Jordan Wintle (Associate Head of School – Education, Health and Science), Dr Liz Durden-Myers (Lecturer in Physical Education, University of Gloucestershire; Professor of Physical Literacy and Physical Education, Bath Spa University), and Dr Vicky Randall (Visiting Associate, Professor of Education) are part of the collaborative writing team led by the AfPE, the national subject association for PE in England.

The curriculum development work is being overseen by AfPE leadership, including Kate Thornton-Bousfield (Chief Executive Officer), and aligns with recommendations emerging from the recent Department for Education Curriculum and Assessment Review.

Working with colleagues across the sector, the team is helping to shape a refreshed curriculum framework that builds on the strengths of the current national curriculum while responding to contemporary challenges facing schools, teachers, and young people. This includes strengthening inclusion, focusing on the holistic development of young people, and the role of Physical Education in supporting ongoing participation in physical activity.

Dr Jordan Wintle (main image, left) said: “It is a privilege to contribute professional expertise to a national process that will influence PE experiences for millions of young people. Our role is to bring research-informed practice, sector insight, and practitioner experience into the development process.

“We have a great team, with a wide breadth of knowledge and experience to ensure we can provide a modern curriculum that helps teachers to create positive and meaningful experiences for all young people.”

Dr Liz Durden-Myers said: “At the heart of this curriculum redevelopment is the ambition to create opportunities that nurture a lifelong, positive relationship with movement and physical activity. It is a privilege to work alongside AfPE and wider colleagues in helping to shape the future of PE and ensure that it supports the wellbeing and development of every child.”

Dr Vicky Randall said: “This is an important moment for Physical Education, to ensure and secure its future for all young people. It is a huge honour to be working with such a talented and passionate team of professionals.”

The involvement of University of Gloucestershire academics reflects the institution’s strong commitment to teacher education, applied research, and sector engagement.

The University offers undergraduate and postgraduate teacher training routes across primary and secondary education, including specialist Physical Education pathways and a well-established PGCE programme, ensuring future teachers are trained using contemporary, research-informed approaches aligned with national priorities.

The revised national curriculum is expected to be finalised later this year, ahead of implementation across schools from September 2028.