Physical Education, Physical Activity and Sport (PEPAS)
Physical activity in education plays a crucial role in promoting the health and wellbeing of children and young people. The Scottish Government is committed to schools delivering at least two hours of PE for all pupils in primary school, and at least two periods of PE for all pupils between S1-4. This ensures that students have regular opportunities to be physically active and learn new skills.
In Scottish schools, physical activity is incorporated into the curriculum through Physical Education classes. These classes aim to develop students’ physical literacy, which includes skills, knowledge, and confidence to participate in a range of physical activities. PE classes focus on developing fundamental movement skills, such as running, jumping, throwing, and catching, as well as more specialised skills related to various sports and activities.
In addition to PE classes, schools in Scotland promote physical activity through various initiatives and extracurricular activities. This may include sports clubs, intramural competitions, and after-school programs that allow students to participate in a wide range of sports and physical activities.
The Scottish government has set targets to reduce sedentary behaviour and increase physical activity among children and young people. Schools are encouraged to provide opportunities for students to be physically active throughout the school day, including active play during break times and integrating physical activity into classroom lessons whenever possible.
School Physical Activity Survey 2022
A physical activity survey of pupils from Primary 4 to S5 was undertaken in 2022; view the summary report.
