Building resilience, confidence and pride through sport
Sport at Pownall Hall is about far more than results. Through PE and Games, children learn how to persevere, work with others, handle disappointment and take pride in doing their best. Success is not measured only by winning, but by effort, progress and the confidence to keep going when things feel challenging.
Every child is encouraged to take part, to feel valued and to find enjoyment in being active. Whether representing the school in competitive fixtures or achieving a personal milestone for the first time, sport plays a central role in shaping character, resilience and self-belief.
Mrs Sharon Johnstone
BA (Hons) Physical Education with Qualified Teacher Status
Level 1 Netball and Hockey Coach
ASA Swim for Life
Create Development Series for Physical Education
As Head of PE and Games, Sharon Johnstone leads a programme built around resilience, determination and life skills. Her approach ensures that children develop confidence through sport, learning that progress comes from effort, persistence and a positive mindset.
Sharon believes strongly that every child can succeed in sport in their own way. Praise, encouragement and clear expectations help children to build self-belief, whether they are naturally athletic or discovering their confidence more gradually. Through both success and setbacks, pupils are taught to take pride in their effort, to support one another and to approach challenges with determination.
With over a decade at Pownall Hall, Sharon has developed a sports programme that balances enjoyment with ambition, offering regular opportunities to compete, lead and grow.
PE and Games at Pownall Hall are delivered by a team of experienced specialist teachers and coaches, bringing depth of knowledge, enthusiasm and consistency across the school. This specialist staffing allows children to be supported, stretched and encouraged at every stage, while ensuring all pupils are involved and valued.
125+
Annual Prep fixtures
8th
U11 Netball nationally (out of 252 schools)
2024
First Pownall Sports Gala hosted
121k
Miles collectively ran on Sports Day
Physical development in the Early Years lays the foundations for confidence, coordination and enjoyment of movement. Children begin by developing balance, strength and spatial awareness through play, exploration and age-appropriate activities.
Milestones are celebrated, from mastering new movements to taking part in Sports Day for the first time. Children also enjoy regular use of the Sports Hall, building familiarity and confidence in a safe, supportive environment.
In Forms 1 and 2, children develop core movement skills that underpin future sport. Lessons focus on balance, coordination, agility and simple games, while introducing teamwork and fair play in a positive, enjoyable way.
Pre-Prep pupils take part in festivals and Inter-House Games, helping them build confidence and an understanding of friendly competition. Swimming lessons in Year 2 further develop physical confidence and water safety, while sport remains purposeful, encouraging and inclusive.
Games afternoons are a highlight of Prep life. Children take part in Football, Netball, Rugby, Hockey and Cricket, led by specialist staff. Regular fixtures, tournaments and festivals offer both competitive and friendly opportunities, with teams travelling locally and nationally.
All children are involved, with opportunities to represent the school regardless of experience level. Participation builds teamwork, resilience and pride in representing Pownall Hall.
Alongside Games, specialist PE lessons develop fitness, movement skills and understanding of healthy lifestyles. Activities include Athletics, Gymnastics, Badminton and fitness-based learning, helping children build strength, coordination and confidence.
Sport at Pownall prepares children for the realities of senior school life. Pupils learn that sport does not always go their way, and that resilience, teamwork and perseverance matter as much as results.
Leadership opportunities play an important role, supporting scholarship applications and interviews. Programmes such as the Primary School Sports Leaders Award help children develop confidence, responsibility and communication skills, expanding comfort zones and preparing them for the next stage of their education.
At Pownall Hall, sport is challenging, supportive and purposeful. Children leave with pride in their effort, confidence in their abilities and the determination to keep going – lessons that stay with them long after the final whistle.
Explore the next subject in the Pownall curriculum or arrange a visit to see PE and Games in action.
