Episode 72 - Carla Howard - Redefining Curriculum and Collaboration at the Coal Face

In this episode of PE Insights, Nathan Walker is joined by Carla Howard, Head of PE and founder of the Heads of PE Network. Together, they explore how inclusive, holistic, and collaborative approaches are reshaping the PE curriculum.Carla shares how her department is reframing PE as “for all”—focusing on physical, cognitive, social, and affective development rather than elite performance. She discusses how student voice drives curriculum design, the power of small-sided games for engagement, and why assessment should reflect non-linear progress.The conversation also delves into Carla’s creation of a national Heads of PE Network that supports middle leaders and aspiring heads, and her reflections on the Curriculum and Assessment Review Final Report—from redefining PE’s purpose to renaming GCSE PE for the respect it deserves.We are excited to share that we have formed a partnership with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sports Directory⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, with their '⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠My School Rewards' Scheme⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, you’ll get 10% back on every order, helping you to grow your department budget. Check it out now.