Introduction
In a recent episode of the PE Insights podcast hosted by Nathan Walker, Olivia Flemings, a PhD student in physical literacy from a sports psychology background, discussed her academic and personal journey. She was initially inclined toward clinical psychology, working in hospitals before deciding to pursue physical literacy. Her family, particularly her mother, a PE teacher and physical literacy advocate, strongly influenced her interest. Olivia’s research at the University of Bedfordshire aims to explore how community-based physical activity can foster physical literacy, wellbeing and human flourishing.
Developing Inclusivity in Physical Education
Olivia shared insights from her personal PE experiences in school. While she enjoyed sports and the escapism they provided, she observed that many PE classes were exclusive, favouring high-achieving or popular students. She argued that PE could benefit from a more inclusive approach, focusing on enjoyment and individual connection with movement rather than on competition. She emphasised the need for pedagogical reform, suggesting that teacher training should include new, holistic methods for engaging all students in physical activity.
PhD Research on Community-Driven Physical Activity
Olivia’s PhD research is focused on community-based physical activity, aiming to design spaces that encourage movement through the creation of safe, accessible, and family-friendly environments. Collaborating with the International Physical Literacy Association and Lands Improvement Holdings, Olivia has been developing a project to promote community-based, meaningful physical activity. Her findings show that people prioritise safety, inclusivity, and family-oriented spaces over high-end fitness facilities. This community focus has led to initiatives like Park Play, a Sport England-backed project that provides community playtime and strengthens family connections through shared activity.
Enhancing Community Engagement in Physical Education
Olivia discusses the importance of safe, accessible community spaces for families and children to feel encouraged to engage in physical activities. She suggests family-oriented events where students, parents, and even grandparents participate in shared activities. Olivia highlights the challenge of sustaining initiatives, like Park Play, due to limited volunteers but believes schools and PE teachers could bridge this gap by organising community play sessions.
Intrinsic Motivation and Physical Literacy
Olivia emphasises a shift in PE from focusing on physical skill metrics to fostering a lifelong love for movement through intrinsic motivation. She notes that PE should prioritise the quality of experiences over sheer quantity, helping students find personal meaning in physical activity. Engaging students on this level could promote long-term positive attitudes towards fitness, she argues, especially if students recall enjoyable past experiences.
Building Positive Student-Teacher Connections
In her experience, Olivia observed the powerful role of positive student-teacher relationships. She describes a PE teacher who engaged students on their level, creating an inclusive and fun environment that encouraged collaboration and reduced social hierarchies. This approach fostered a unified team spirit among students, which Olivia believes is crucial in making physical activity inviting and enjoyable.
Inclusive and Reflective Teaching Practices
Olivia advocates for PE teachers to adopt inclusive practices, tailoring sessions to meet diverse student needs and avoiding any student feeling excluded. Reflection is another cornerstone: teachers should continually assess and adapt their methods, while encouraging students to reflect on their own experiences in PE. By fostering self-reflection, students may develop a deeper, personalised connection to physical activity.
Olivia’s Future Goals
Olivia aspires to continue supporting physical literacy at the grassroots level, working with organisations such as the International Physical Literacy Association. She envisions assisting local authorities and schools in fostering meaningful physical education, ultimately creating more impactful PE experiences globally.
Key Takeaways for PE Teachers
Olivia concludes by urging PE teachers to inspire students by helping them discover personal meaning in physical activity. By fostering positive, memorable experiences, PE teachers can play a vital role in instilling a lifelong appreciation for physical activity.
About the Guest
Today’s episode is a conversation with Olivia Flemons, a PhD candidate at the University of Bedfordshire.
You can connect with Olivia via X @OliviaFlemons
Listen and Connect
To listen to the full episode please follow these links to Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
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