I READ Diane Spencer’s article on primary school physical education (TES, November 19). Are Trevor Brooking’s comments based on any evidence, or is this again using the teaching profession as a scapegoat - this time for the ills of the English professional soccer world?
As an ex-secondary school PE teacher, now a primary school head, my comment is that skills are now being taught better than ever in primary schools.
Despite what the press may argue, competitive sport is alive and well in primary schools and children leave with a good range of skills, adaptability and a keenness for the subject. If recent history is anything to go by, our national teams appear to have the individual skills to match most in the world (cricket, rugby and soccer). What often seems to be lacking is the adaptability to change course in the middle of a game. Is this based on fear of failure and the resultant financial consequences?
Please Mr Brooking, base any comments you may make on evidence, not political expediency. You, or anyone from Sport England is welcome to visit our school, talk to our children and see them in action.
Paul Pearson
Headteacher
Woodhall junior mixed amp; infants school
South Oxhey, Watford
