Poor facilities see schools teaching too little PE

CHILDREN are not being taught important parts of the physical education curriculum because of inadequate facilities, teachers claimed last night.

A report prepared by the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO) shows that just three-in-10 primary pupils are taught dance on a regular basis, and just slightly more get frequent swimming lessons. These are both aspects of the curriculum which all schools are expected to provide, along with gymnastics, which the union found is seldom taught, if ever.

The report also found that poor facilities meant that almost two-thirds of pupils rarely experience outdoor or adventure activities.