The real PE podcast

real PE episode 5: What are the most important outcomes for children?

In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the revolutionary "multi-abilities" approach, which recognises that successful physical education isn't just about physical skills - it's about developing the whole child.
Discover why focusing on personal, social and cognitive skills alongside fundamental movement skills creates more inclusive, effective PE experiences where every child can succeed. Learn how deliberate practice in areas like resilience, cooperation and creative thinking accelerates physical development rather than distracting from it. The team shares inspiring examples of how this approach transforms not just PE lessons but children's broader school experience and attitudes toward learning.
Whether you're an educator, coach, or parent, this episode offers valuable insights into what truly matters for children's development and how to create physical education experiences where every child can thrive.

real nonsense - Episode 2: The waiting game: How queuing in PE undermines learning

In this episode, the team dives into the problematic practice of queuing in PE - why it persists, its negative impacts on engagement and behaviour and better alternatives that increase active learning time. Whether you're a primary school teacher, coach, or school leader, this episode offers evidence-based solutions to maximize pupil participation, skill development and enjoyment.
Join hosts Toni Smyth, Ronnie Heath and John Parsons as they tackle the "nonsense" practices that persist in physical education but wouldn't be tolerated in any other subject.

Episode 4: What makes the biggest difference in PE?

Discover how to transform PE from an experience that too often leaves children feeling "embarrassed" and "humiliated" into one where every child feels they belong.
Listen as these passionate educators reveal why they felt compelled to challenge the status quo, how they identified that many primary teachers lacked confidence in PE due to their own negative experiences, and why they believe quality physical education is more crucial now than ever. With authenticity and conviction, they explain what "real" in real PE truly means - putting education back into physical education with a child-first approach that ensures every pupil can succeed.
Whether you're a PE specialist, primary teacher, school leader, or simply interested in educational transformation, this episode offers valuable insights into creating inclusive learning environments where all children can develop positive relationships with physical activity for life.

real nonsense - Episode 1: Is it ever okay for children to be "out" during PE lessons?

The real nonsense podcast tackles the outdated practices that still plague Physical Education. Each episode identifies ‘real nonsense’ - ineffective PE approaches that hinder children's learning and enjoyment - and offers practical solutions to transform these into engaging, inclusive learning experiences.
In our debut episode of the real nonsense podcast, we explore how traditional "out" games disadvantage those who need practice most while offering limited challenge to confident movers.
Our expert panel discusses how simple modifications can transform these activities into inclusive learning experiences where EVERY child gets maximum practice time.
Whether you're a PE teacher, coach, or educator passionate about physical activity, real nonsense provides actionable insights to create more joyful, effective Physical Education for all children.

Episode 3: Is PE still failing too many?

In this compelling episode of the real PE Podcast, Greg, Toni and Ronnie dive deep into the current state of Physical Education, challenging conventional practices and exploring what true success looks like for young learners. They candidly discuss the systemic issues in PE, from outdated teaching methods to the critical need for child-centered, learning-focused approaches. With passionate insights and a commitment to transforming Physical Education, they argue for a paradigm shift that prioritises individual progress, joy in movement and meaningful learning experiences over traditional, one-size-fits-all methodologies.  About the guest speaker:  Greg Dryer, Co-Founder, miMove  Greg is a distinguished physical educator with extensive experience in the field, working with three-year olds through to postgraduates. He led the PE departments of three large inner London secondary schools before moving into Higher Education. He was Founder and Director of CPESA (the Centre for Physical Education, Sport and Activity) at Kingston University, London. He has authored resources and curricula for students in India and the UK. His ongoing research and practice in supporting young people develop a physical activity habit, highlights the need for practitioners to be able to measure the impact of their work. miMove is the solution.  Find out more about miMove here Ronnie Heath, CEO, real PE  Ronnie leads an incredible team who are finding ways to provide the best possible early experiences for 4-11 year olds, supporting over 7,500 schools so far to make a proven impact and create positive relationships with physical activity for life. Ronnie, a former leader in education, award-winning National League coach and National Trainer, established Create in 2006 to inspire teachers and coaches to better include, engage and challenge all young learners. In addition to being an innovative and groundbreaking author and speaker, Ronnie provides inspiring thought leadership to change the culture of PE and Sport. As an international keynote speaker, Ronnie has influenced practice and practitioners in countries across the world including China, Malaysia, South Africa, South Korea and United Arab Emirates.  Toni Smyth, Insight and Impact Manager and Learning Specialist, real PE  Former Head of Secondary PE, Toni gained a Masters in PE and went on to become a higher education lecturer in Sport and PE. After a number of years working for professional rugby clubs developing their community programmes, she returned to education in the South West. Toni spent many years working with real PE in her role as Education Lead at Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership employing her breadth of skills and knowledge to help schools include, challenge and support all children in PE and Sport. Now working for real PE as Insight and Impact Manager, Toni leads on establishing Market Leading Authority around Professional Learning through rich, meaningful customer insights and the generation and celebration of a variety of valuable impact reports and measures.  Find more about real PE here

Episode 2: Insider secrets from expert primary PE leads

Want to turn your PE lessons from 'just another subject' into powerful learning experiences where every child thrives? Discover insider secrets from expert primary PE leads! Join us for an engaging exploration of primary Physical Education with two seasoned experts: Mark Templeton, a PE specialist with over 20 years of experience supporting schools across the South West, and Steve Low, a senior leader and PE lead at Bishop Henderson CofE Primary School, Taunton, who has a decade of classroom expertise. In this episode, they unpack transformative insights into creating inclusive, engaging and impactful PE lessons that go far beyond traditional Physical Education. Discover practical strategies for setting clear expectations, sharing learning goals and developing whole-child learning experiences that can revolutionise how we approach Physical Education in primary schools. About the guest speakers: Steve Low, PE Subject Leader, Bishop Henderson Church of England VA Primary School, Taunton Steve has been PE Lead for 10 years. He’s a PE teacher of year groups across the school for 3 days of the week, a class teacher and also Deputy Safeguarding Lead and Welfare lead.  Mark Templeton, PE and Sport Lead at Nerrols Primary School, Taunton and real PE Affiliate Partner, PE360 Mark is the PE and Sport Lead at Nerrols Primary School, Taunton. He is also the School Support Manager at the local Active Partnership (SASP) and has over 20 years of teaching experience. He offers bespoke Primary PE support and guidance for schools, PE leads and teachers. Mark is also an official real PE Affiliate Partner. Toni Smyth, Insight and Impact Manager and Learning Specialist, real PE Former Head of Secondary PE, Toni gained a Masters in PE and went on to become a higher education lecturer in Sport and PE. After a number of years working for professional rugby clubs developing their community programmes, she returned to education in the South West. Toni spent many years working with real PE in her role as Education Lead at Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership employing her breadth of skills and knowledge to help schools include, challenge and support all children in PE and Sport. Now working for real PE as Insight and Impact Manager, Toni leads on establishing Market Leading Authority around Professional Learning through rich, meaningful customer insights and the generation and celebration of a variety of valuable impact reports and measures. Find more about real PE here.  

Episode 1: What does success in PE look like?

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. In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into what truly matters in PE with distinguished experts Ronnie Heath, Toni Smyth and our special guest, Greg Dryer. They challenge traditional notions of success in Physical Education and offer fresh perspectives on creating meaningful, lasting impact. Whether you're a primary school classroom teacher looking to enhance your PE delivery or a seasoned PE specialist, this podcast will inspire you to rethink your approach. Discover how to foster a lifelong love for physical activity in your pupils, measure progress in innovative ways and align your teaching practices with the ultimate goal of empowering children to choose active, healthy lifestyles. Get ready to revolutionise your PE lessons and make a real difference in your pupils' lives! About the guest speaker: Greg Dryer, Co-Founder, miMove Greg is a distinguished physical educator with extensive experience in the field, working with three-year olds through to postgraduates. He led the PE departments of three large inner London secondary schools before moving into Higher Education. He was Founder and Director of CPESA (the Centre for Physical Education, Sport and Activity) at Kingston University, London. He has authored resources and curricula for students in India and the UK. His ongoing research and practice in supporting young people develop a physical activity habit, highlights the need for practitioners to be able to measure the impact of their work. miMove is the solution. Find out more about miMove here: Ronnie Heath, CEO, real PERonnie leads an incredible team who are finding ways to provide the best possible early experiences for 4-11 year olds, supporting over 7,500 schools so far to make a proven impact and create positive relationships with physical activity for life. Ronnie, a former leader in education, award-winning National League coach and National Trainer, established Create in 2006 to inspire teachers and coaches to better include, engage and challenge all young learners. In addition to being an innovative and groundbreaking author and speaker, Ronnie provides inspiring thought leadership to change the culture of PE and Sport. As an international keynote speaker, Ronnie has influenced practice and practitioners in countries across the world including China, Malaysia, South Africa, South Korea and United Arab Emirates. Toni Smyth, Insight and Impact Manager and Learning Specialist, real PE Former Head of Secondary PE, Toni gained a Masters in PE and went on to become a higher education lecturer in Sport and PE. After a number of years working for professional rugby clubs developing their community programmes, she returned to education in the South West. Toni spent many years working with real PE in her role as Education Lead at Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership employing her breadth of skills and knowledge to help schools include, challenge and support all children in PE and Sport. Now working for real PE as Insight and Impact Manager, Toni leads on establishing Market Leading Authority around Professional Learning through rich, meaningful customer insights and the generation and celebration of a variety of valuable impact reports and measures. Find more about real PE here.