Provision of Physical Education inPrimary Education Initial TeacherTraining Courses in Scotland

Abstract

The aim of this study was to survey the quantity and quality of physical education (PE) in Initial Teacher Training (ITT) programmes in Scotland. Survey questionnaires were returned from 5 of the 6 ITT programmes and interviews were conducted with individuals with responsibility for primary PE from four of the programmes. Each ITT programme covered PE on their undergraduate (BEd) and post‐graduate (PGCE) programmes. Time allocation ranged from 31 to 53 hours on the undergraduate programme and from 10 hours to 20 hours on the PGCE. Time allocation on the elective course was more widespread varying from 10 to 180 hours. PE course content also varied, however, all programmes covered games and team sports, dance, and gymnastics. These activities also received the highest time allocation. Innovative approaches, which attempted to achieve quality despite time restrictions, were observed in two establishments. The study showed time and content variation within the ITT establishments in Scotland and highlighted areas of future need and concern regarding Expressive Arts.