At Pownall Hall, we place a strong emphasis on sports, with a team of committed, specialist staff dedicated to providing the best opportunities for all children. Team sports play a crucial role in our curriculum, allowing children to represent Pownall in a diverse range of disciplines, including Netball, Football, Hockey, Rugby, Athletics, and Cricket. Additionally, individual sports such as Swimming, Horse Riding, Tennis, and Golf are also highlighted.
Children at Pownall truly enjoy Physical Education and Games, displaying passion and enthusiasm during weekly fixtures, tournaments, festivals, and House events. These experiences not only foster physical development but also contribute significantly to their mental well-being and overall growth.
Games, Physical Education, healthy lifestyle, activity – inside and outside of the classroom, is the best lesson anyone could wish to teach! Developing the skills and confidence of such young minds and bodies are an essential element to provide children with a happy and healthy lifestyle.
I enjoy coaching the children as they grow and develop through the school. Taking a team of U11 Netball players to the National Finals in 2024 was a proud moment, encouraging and supporting children through to National level swimming and tennis has been a privilege to be part of. I have enjoyed developing the teams, events, fixtures and opportunities to the children of Pownall over my 12 years at Pownall Hall School.
Mrs Sharon Johnstone – BA Hons Physical Education with Qualified Teacher Status. Level 1 Netball and Hockey Coach, National Curriculum ASA Swim for Life, Create Development Series for Physical Education, Educational Visits Coordinator Training
As a passionate and dedicated PE teacher, I have gained extensive experience coaching a wide range of sports, primarily within independent schools. A couple of rewarding experiences include 3rd place finish in the Regional Netball Competition, unbeaten season in Hockey and coaching numerous teams at county level swimming and tennis.
I thoroughly enjoy seeing each child progress and grow in their sporting abilities, building confidence and teamwork. Whether out on the netball courts or football pitches, I find immense joy in helping young athletes discover their potential and develop lifelong love for sport.
Miss Jordan Chapman – BA Hons in Physical Education. PGCE with a QTS in Primary 5-11 with a PE Specialism. Level 1 Netball Coach, INTO Officiating Netball Umpire.
I hold a PGDE in Secondary Education from Leeds Metropolitan University and, before becoming a classroom teacher, I spent several years honing my coaching skills in local primary schools, leading sessions in hockey and cricket.
As a member of the Pownall Hall team since September 2018, I have taught PE/Games to Prep children, plus lead on weekly fixtures. I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and expertise with the next generation and inspiring them to reach their full potential.
Outside of the classroom, I am a qualified ECB Level 2 cricket coach with over 15 years of experience coaching children aged 5-15. As a committed club cricketer, I’ve been part of the same team for over 20 years.
Mr. Will Cross, PGDE Secondary Education, qualified ECB Level 2 cricket coach – Games Specialist Teacher
I have enjoyed coaching sports at a school and club level for 25+ years, across the country. Notable successes include a national U11 Rugby Title and several successful festival wins and unbeaten seasons, several local league championships for football, formation of several girls’ football teams and national level champions across a spectrum of track events in athletics.
My greatest joy comes with just being out on the games field, come rain or shine, and seeing the children loving their sports, and developing their skills and personalities as they do.
David Goulbourn – Level 2 Rugby Coach, Level 2 Cricket Coach, Level 1 FA coach
125+
Annual Prep fixtures
8th
U11 Netball placed nationally out of 252 schools
2024
Hosted first annual Sports Gala
121k
Miles collectively ran during Sports Day
Physical Development is a key focus in the Early Years Foundation Stage, essential for children’s overall growth and their ability to lead happy, healthy, and active lives. Children begin by engaging in sensory explorations that enhance their strength, coordination, and spatial awareness through activities like tummy time and crawling. As they progress, they develop skills in running, balancing, jumping, and ball handling. Staff members celebrate significant milestones, such as a child taking their first steps or scoring their initial goal.
From the outset in Robins, all children participate in activities in the Sports Hall and enjoy Sports Day, which showcases their physical skills and fosters a fun experience for families.
In Years 1 and 2, children learn fundamental movement skills that form the basis for enjoyable small games. Pre-Prep offers opportunities to participate in festivals and Inter-House Games, laying the groundwork for competitive fixtures as they transition to Prep. Emphasis is placed on fair play, teamwork, and understanding basic rules, all while ensuring that sport remains fun and enjoyable.
Physical Education promotes a healthy lifestyle and active choices during this stage. Activities such as running, jumping, throwing, and catching, along with movement to music, are taught through creative methods that support development and strength. Year 2 children also receive swimming lessons at the local pool.
Games
Pownall Hall offers an exceptional range of Games opportunities, where children enjoy participation and competition. Afternoon Games are a highlight, featuring Football, Netball, Rugby, Hockey, and Cricket, led by specialist staff. Fixtures, tournaments, and festivals occur during Games afternoons and on additional days, with opportunities to travel to nearby schools and beyond for various competitive events. Teams for both boys and girls participate in local football and netball leagues, providing excellent chances for all abilities to engage and compete.
PE
In addition to Games, Physical Education lessons are conducted by specialist PE staff, covering areas such as Athletics, Fitness, Movement Skills, Badminton, and Gymnastics. These lessons provide an opportunity to discuss healthy lifestyle choices and the significance of physical activity.
At Pownall, preparation for Sports Scholarships and Sports Programs at the Senior School level is a priority. The school offers foundational opportunities through fixtures, tournaments, leagues, and national events that build confidence and create positive experiences for scholarship applications.The Primary School Sports Leaders Award is offered as an exciting opportunity for children to develop their leadership skills. This program equips them to lead small groups and activities effectively. Additionally, the award serves as a great talking point in Senior School interviews, highlighting their preparedness for future leadership roles.
