We’re pleased to see the education news headlines speak of a school funding boost for Primary PE specialists this morning. The Department of Education talked about the importance of children developing “a sporting habit for life” - something we feel strongly about here at STM. They emphasised that in order for this to happen, primary schools need to be employing specialist PE staff.

Department for Education and School Funding

The DfE have said that £360,000 will be put towards training primary teachers with a specialism in PE. The idea behind the funding boost is to develop teachers’ skills in PE, ensuring that children get the opportunities they need to be able to practice sport seriously. It’s hoped that, by September 2015, 240 primary specialists will have taken up posts.

"PE teaching is a specialist role and deserves bespoke support. PE specialists are vital to really embedding sporting expertise in schools, as well as giving children every chance of developing a sporting habit for life.” - Edward Timpson, Children’s Minister

The teachers on the training programme study sport/PE for 50% of the course. The vast majority already have a 2:1 + degree in a sports subject.

How does EPIC playground surfacing help?

At STM, we believe that embedding sport in a child’s life is an important part of their early social, emotional and, of course, physical development. Our EPIC playground surfaces support this via a diverse range of markings, each encouraging different kinds of activity and interaction. From phonemes to running tracks, our bright colourful surfaces support things such as competition, agility, basic movements, leadership skills and social skills. Phew! That’s a whole lot of boxes ticked with just one playground!

Could you benefit from EPIC playground surfacing?

EPIC surfaces are a fantastic way to spend funding; they’re practical, usable all year-round and least for years. If you’re interested in learning how your school could benefit from an EPIC playground

Give us a call on 01642 713555