In this episode of The PE Umbrella podcast I am joined by Mike Kuczala & Lynne Kenney for a fascinating conversation exploring one of the most important relationships in education: the connection between movement, the brain and learning.

Together, we explore why movement is not simply something children do during PE or at break time, but a fundamental part of how they develop, learn and engage with the world around them.

We discuss the role of the brain-body connection, how children's early movement experiences shape development, and why understanding systems such as the vestibular system can help us better appreciate the importance of movement throughout childhood.

The conversation also explores what intentional movement can look like within classrooms, how small opportunities to move can influence attention, focus and behaviour, and why we should think carefully about creating environments where children are not expected to be still for long periods of time.

We reflect on the relationship between physical education and learning, the importance of developmentally appropriate movement experiences, and how we can support children to build positive relationships with movement that last far beyond their time at school.

Whether you're a primary teacher, PE lead or simply passionate about helping children thrive through movement, this episode will challenge your thinking and provide practical ideas you can take into your own setting.

So what are you waiting for? Come and join us under The PE Umbrella

In this episode of The PE Umbrella podcast I am joined by Author of Wanna Teach PE and Wanna Lead PE, Ben Holden, for a rich conversation exploring the realities of primary PE leadership and what it takes to create meaningful, consistent experiences for every child.

Together, we unpack some of the biggest questions facing PE leaders today. How do we ensure PE reflects the unique context of our school? How can we genuinely listen to and act upon pupil voice? And what does effective PE leadership actually look like beyond organising events and managing resources?

Throughout the conversation, we explore the importance of building confidence and competence amongst staff, creating equitable experiences for all pupils, and finding meaningful ways to measure the impact of PE. We also discuss the wider influence of PE within school communities, from engaging parents and celebrating success, to shaping school culture and strengthening connections beyond the school gates.

Along the way, we reflect on the characteristics of schools where PE is truly valued, the priorities that matter most for PE leaders, and the changes children experience when high-quality leadership is in place. Most importantly, we consider how PE can become a vehicle for helping children not only move more, but also think, connect and grow in confidence.

Whether you're an experienced PE lead, new to the role, or simply passionate about improving children's experiences of physical education, this episode is packed with practical insights, thoughtful reflections and plenty of food for thought.

So what are you waiting for? Come and join us under The PE Umbrella

In this episode of The PE Umbrella podcast I am joined by Dr Gerald Griggs for a thought-provoking conversation about what meaningful learning in primary PE really looks like.

Together, we explore how we can create lessons that are more than just physically active, considering how children think, connect, grow in confidence and, most importantly, enjoy the experience of learning through movement.

We discuss what progression really means in primary PE, why periods of struggle or plateau can actually be valuable learning opportunities, and how some of the routines or practices we use with the best intentions may unintentionally exclude certain children from fully engaging.

We also reflect on the purpose of primary PE within the wider curriculum, question whether schemes of work should be viewed as a guide rather than a script, and explore how creative, unconventional approaches can help children develop skills in more meaningful ways.

As the conversation unfolds, we touch on an idea close to the heart of The PE Umbrella: have we become too focused on the physical aspects of PE, while overlooking the equally important cognitive, social and emotional experiences that shape children's lifelong relationship with movement?

Whether you're a class teacher, PE lead or simply passionate about giving children the very best experiences in PE, this episode is packed with ideas to challenge your thinking and inspire your practice.

So what are you waiting for? Come and join us under The PE Umbrella