Discover How We’re Shaping the Future of Physical Education

At the Association for Physical Education (afPE), we are committed to transforming Physical Education by championing high-quality teaching, fostering innovation, and strengthening the connections that underpin a thriving subject community. Our current focus is on supporting the next generation of PE teachers through dynamic collaboration with Initial Teacher Training/Education (ITE/ITT) providers and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) across the UK and beyond.

Here’s how we’re making a difference:

✅ Supporting Future PE Teachers
We are dedicated to equipping trainee teachers with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to deliver impactful and inclusive PE. Through tailored resources, CPD opportunities, and strategic support, afPE ensures that the teachers of tomorrow are ready to lead and inspire.

🌍 Sharing Global Insights and Research
afPE actively engages with international perspectives, drawing on global research to inform practice and policy. By promoting knowledge exchange and showcasing innovative approaches from around the world, we help shape a more informed and forward-thinking PE landscape.

🤝 Fostering Partnerships
Our work thrives on collaboration. We are building strong, sustainable relationships with ITEs, HEIs, SCITTs, and sector organisations to ensure joined-up thinking and shared responsibility for the future of Physical Education.

🎓 Empowering PE Students
We believe in nurturing student voices and creating opportunities for professional growth. Our initiatives are designed to support students as they transition from training to qualified practice, fostering a deep sense of purpose and professional identity.

📚 Exchanging Research and Ideas
By connecting academic research with real-world teaching, we bridge the gap between theory and practice. afPE supports the dissemination of cutting-edge research, creating a vibrant space for dialogue, innovation, and reflective practice.

🔗 Strengthening Sector Connections
We are creating a more unified PE community by encouraging dialogue between educators, researchers, and policy-makers. Our work helps strengthen the sector’s collective voice and promotes a shared commitment to excellence.

🎤 Delivering ITT/ITE Collaboration Events and Professional Development
afPE regularly hosts ITE/ITT and HEI network seminars, webinars, and our flagship HEI/ITE Connect Day, offering vital opportunities for professional learning, discussion, and strategic alignment. These events provide a platform to explore new ideas, develop shared approaches, and celebrate the achievements of the PE education community.

Whether through empowering new teachers or amplifying international research, afPE is leading a movement to ensure that PE remains a dynamic, evidence-informed, and inclusive subject for all learners. Join us on this exciting journey.

🎥 Take a look at our HEI & ITE Network Seminar, hosted by afPE CEO Kate Thornton-Bousfield, alongside David Grecic and Andy Sprake, on Wednesday 28 May 2025, 6PM–7PM.

In this engaging session, our speakers explored how afPE is transforming Physical Education, with a focus on:

✅ Supporting the next generation of PE teachers
🌍 Sharing global insights and the latest research
🤝 Strengthening partnerships across the sector

This seminar sets the stage for our upcoming HEI/ITE/SCITT Connect Day on 11 June — a day dedicated to building collaboration, exchanging ideas, and empowering those shaping the future of PE.

Click here to view the recording.