"Thing 2" PE as an Exam Subject at Leaving Cert Level

There has been much discussion about PE as an exam subject recently in the media - from blaming the PE curriculum for worsening obesity levels, lack of fitness and the general ill health of our teenagers to vilifying schools for the lack of resources and time allocated to PE. A general misconception is equating PE and Sport. There is a huge difference between PE, Sport, Exercise, Activity and Training to mention but a few words that become confused in a myriad of terminology.

Students who excel at running, gymnastics, dance etc. etc. to name but a few, rarely get any reward for their kinaesthetic or aesthetic skill apart from a medal around their neck, a photograph in the local paper or some lip service from some well meaning politician. Never have they got points in their leaving cert which would benefit them in acquiring a place at third level. Meanwhile those who can paint a beautiful picture or play an instrument with acclaim can use those skills to benefit their careers ( and rightly so!)

There is a huge injustice here and as usual it is our young people who bear the brunt. I would ask all politicians, journalists and educators to stand up and be counted and give PE the priority it deserves and leave the responsibility for the health of our teenagers primarily on the shoulders of those who are ultimately responsible as the primary educators : Parents.

Haven been a PE teacher for 32 years - PE as an exam subject has been a long wait!!