Teaching Tackling Safely in Rugby (Lesson 4)

Safe Rugby Tackling – Lesson 4: Introducing the Tackle to the Floor

Lesson 4 is the point where tackling is introduced — safely, progressively, and with confidence.

This lesson builds directly on the foundations laid in earlier lessons (body position, movement, grip, and controlled contact) and introduces the tackle to the floor in a structured, low-risk way.

It is designed for non-specialist teachers and mixed-ability groups, ensuring that students understand how and why tackles are performed safely, rather than rushing into full contact.

Lesson Focus

• Safe body position in the tackle
• Shoulder contact and head placement
• Wrapping and controlling the opponent
• Going to ground safely
• Protecting both the tackler and the ball carrier

This lesson avoids full-speed collisions and instead uses carefully designed drills and conditioned games to ensure correct technique before intensity is increased in later lessons.

What’s Included

✔ Detailed lesson plan
✔ Clear teaching points and safety cues
✔ Progressive drills leading to controlled tackles
✔ Conditioned games to reinforce technique
✔ Differentiation for confidence and ability
✔ Teacher guidance for safe delivery
✔ Student reflection task
✔ Assessment focus points

Why This Lesson Works

• Builds confidence before intensity
• Prioritises safety and correct technique
• Reduces fear around tackling
• Suitable for schools with limited rugby experience
• Fully aligned with best practice for safe contact introduction

Who This Lesson Is For

• KS2 Upper / KS3 PE
• Non-specialist PE teachers
• Mixed-ability classes
• Schools wanting a safe, progressive approach to rugby

Part of a Full Unit

This lesson forms Lesson 4 of a progressive Safe Rugby Tackling unit, where contact is introduced gradually and responsibly across multiple lessons.

For the full unit -
https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/resource-13380816

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