real nonsense episode 14: From Nonsense to Sense: How Holistic PE Transforms Learning
In this passionate episode of real Nonsense, hosts Toni Smyth, Ronnie Heath, and John Parsons discuss whether focusing on holistic development—personal, social, and emotional skills—distracts from core physical outcomes in PE.
The trio explore the "cog theory" of learning, demonstrating how different areas of development work together like interconnected cogs. When one cog sticks, the whole system fails.
They argue that far from being a distraction, holistic approaches actually accelerate learning and make PE more inclusive for all pupils.
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MP3 Real nonsense episode 13: From Repetitive to Remarkable: Transforming Skills Practice
This brilliant episode see's hosts Toni Smyth, Ronnie Heath (CEO of real PE), and John Parsons (Director of Innovation at real PE) tackle the misconception that deliberate practice of physical skills has to be boring and repetitive.
In this engaging episode, the team explores why traditional skills practice can feel monotonous when not delivered well, and share creative, age-appropriate solutions that maintain the essential repetition needed for physical learning whilst making it joyful and engaging. From adventure-based learning in early years to whole-part-whole approaches in Key Stage 2, discover how to transform repetitive practices into meaningful, fun experiences that children actually want to participate in.
The discussion covers practical strategies for different age groups, the importance of choice and challenge in learning, and how deliberate practice extends beyond physical skills to include learning behaviours that benefit all aspects of education. Whether you're a primary teacher, PE specialist, or grassroots coach, this episode provides actionable insights for making skills practice both effective and enjoyable.
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real nonsense episode12: Planning PE around the most able: The unintended consequences and more inclusive alternatives
This engaging episode of real Nonsense, hosts Toni Smyth, Ronnie Heath, and John Parsons tackle the nonsense of planning your PE and school sport offer around your most able pupils.
Whilst no school would deliberately exclude children, the team explores how unconscious bias and external pressures can lead to curriculum planning that inadvertently prioritises the loudest voices - often those who are already well-supported in sport outside school.
Drawing on real examples from their extensive work in schools, the hosts examine why this happens: from parental pressure and traditional competition structures to teachers' anxieties about challenging highly skilled pupils.
The episode doesn't just identify the problem - it provides practical solutions. Learn how to appropriately challenge all pupils, including the most able, through contextualisation, leadership opportunities, and a broader understanding of physical literacy. Discover why the best PE offer works for every child, not just those destined for sporting success.
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real nonsense episode 11:The Physical Literacy Emergency: Why Early Intervention Matters More Than Ever
In this essential episode of real Nonsense, host Toni Smyth (insights and impact manager at real PE), Ronnie Heath (CEO of real PE) and John Parsons (Director of Innovation at real PE) tackle one of the biggest pieces of nonsense in primary PE, not addressing movement challenges early enough.
The team explore why schools readily invest in early intervention for literacy and numeracy but fail to do the same for physical development. With research showing children in the UK are potentially three years behind where they should be in physical development by age 10-12, this conversation couldn't be timelier.
The episode reveals the shocking reality that children as young as seven already decide whether they're "sporty" or "not sporty" - and the devastating long-term impact this has on their relationship with physical activity.
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real nonsense episode 10: From standardised laps to joyful movement: Reimagining daily activity
Welcome to Real Nonsense Episode 10! For the first time ever, hosts Toni Smyth, Ronnie Heath (CEO of real PE), and John Parsons (Director of Innovation at real PE) aren't delivering a straight "complete nonsense" verdict. Instead, they explore the nuanced world of daily running activities in primary schools with their inaugural "it depends" conclusion.
The trio examines whether making all children run the same standardised distance or time is beneficial or harmful. Whilst acknowledging the importance of daily physical activity, they question whether one-size-fits-all approaches truly serve our pupils' needs. From creating negative associations with movement to missing opportunities for genuine learning, they unpack why standardised running programmes might be doing more harm than good.
But it's not all criticism! The hosts share inspiring examples of schools transforming rigid running routines into joyful, choice-driven activities that actually work. Discover how creative teachers are incorporating pupil voice, cross-curricular links, and flexible timing to make daily movement meaningful.
The episode also explores brilliant alternatives to laps: active learning techniques, movement breaks within lessons, Wake and Shake programmes, and the innovative real PE Daily activities that link physical movement to curriculum learning.
Whether you're a teacher, headteacher, or physical education specialist, this episode challenges you to rethink how we can make daily physical activity truly educational, engaging, and enjoyable for every child.
Welcome to The real PE podcast - a friendly space for primary school educators passionate about transforming Physical Education and creating positive relationships with physical activity for EVERY child.
We're here to empower fellow educators. Join us as we explore ideas tailored for teaching 4-11 year olds:
1.Innovative approaches to engage, challenge and support EVERY child
2.Inclusive strategies to help EVERY child feel valued and included
3.Insights from our professional learning experiences to enrich your PE lessons
4.Practical ideas to create meaningful impact through Physical Education
We'll share experiences and success stories, discuss creative methods and offer helpful tips to refresh your PE curriculum. Whether you've been teaching for years or are just beginning your journey, The real PE podcast is a supportive community for educators committed to nurturing active, confident and healthy young people.
Come and join us as we explore new possibilities in Physical Educat...
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