Introduction
In this podcast episode, Nathan engages in a captivating conversation with Steve Waide, a passionate advocate for physical education (PE) and the co-founder of ‘Beyond the Physical’. The discussion delves into Steve’s journey from teaching secondary PE to co-creating an innovative curriculum aimed at transforming PE in primary schools.
Background and Journey
Steve’s narrative traces back to his roots in secondary PE, where he quickly rose to become a head of department. His tenure at an inner-city school in Leeds shaped his ethos of seeking innovative ways to engage students. His transition into primary education further fuelled his desire to explore new pedagogical approaches tailored to younger learners.
Formation of ‘Beyond the Physical’
The inception of Beyond the Physical during the COVID-19 pandemic marked a turning point in Steve’s career. Motivated by a desire to effect change despite challenging circumstances, Steve, along with colleagues, embarked on a mission to create a curriculum that transcended traditional PE paradigms. This curriculum, founded on the principles of mastery learning and pupil ownership, aimed to revolutionise physical education by fostering holistic development and lifelong engagement.
Evolution and Impact
Over the past three and a half years, Beyond the Physical has evolved from a novel concept into a multifaceted initiative with a growing footprint. From delivering courses and consultancy services to developing tailored curriculum content, Steve and his team have been instrumental in reshaping PE practices in schools across the UK and beyond. Their collaboration with international schools, such as those in Thailand and Nepal, underscores the global resonance of their mission.
Philosophy and Approach
At the heart of Beyond the Physical lies a philosophy centred on meaningful engagement and relationship-building. Steve emphasises the importance of developing authentic connections with students to understand their individual needs and interests. This approach enables educators to craft curriculum content that resonates with learners, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment. By prioritising pupil voice and agency, Beyond the Physical seeks to cultivate a positive and inclusive learning environment that transcends traditional notions of PE.
Challenges and Adaptations
Despite its rapid growth, Beyond the Physical faces challenges in reaching educators who may be unaware of its existence or skeptical of its efficacy. Steve acknowledges the need to expand outreach efforts and tailor messaging to resonate with diverse audiences. Moreover, the transition from secondary to primary settings presents unique pedagogical challenges, necessitating ongoing adaptations and refinements to curriculum content and delivery methods.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Steve’s journey from secondary PE teacher to co-founder of Beyond the Physical exemplifies the transformative power of innovation and collaboration in education. Through his unwavering commitment to fostering meaningful engagement and pupil empowerment, Steve has helped shape a new paradigm for physical education that transcends traditional boundaries. As Beyond the Physical continues to evolve and expand its reach, its impact on students and educators alike serves as a testament to the enduring importance of holistic, student-centred pedagogy in shaping the future of education.
About the Guest
Steve Waide is Co-Founder of Beyond the Physical @_beyondphysical
You can connect with Steve directly via X at @SteWaide
Listen and Connect
To listen to the full episode please follow these links to Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
If you would like to be a guest on the PE Insights Podcast please reach out by contacting us here or reach out to Nathan Walker via X at @NWalkerPE
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