Why do the Course?

Gymnastics core compulsory area of curriculum KS1 and 2.
Gymnastics is extremely popular with children and can ‘capture’ children who otherwise show little interest in Physical Education.
Most teachers have had limited training in gymnastics, and in turn, lack confidence in how to introduce and develop this activity with their classes. Many ‘shy away’ altogether and identify health and safety or child protection concerns as key to this. Extra training will help teachers overcome these concerns and develop confidence.
Fundamental movement skills are now well established as the main mechanism for developing physical literacy in young children. Gymnastics provides that best sports specific context for the development of these skills (e.g. agility, balance, co-ordination) and in turn, can make a significant contribution to the preparation of children for all other physical activity and sport.
Participation on the course will build teacher confidence in their approach to gymnastics and will develop the necessary skills required to teach set moves, to incorporate apparatus and sequencing into lessons, to understand and underpin good body management and to identify and remedy common faults.
University of Ulster Students who are trained gymnastics' coaches will be made available to assist participating teachers to embed new gymnastics activity with their classes.