Parkour in schools

[joman]

Hi there, I am a year 5 teacher in a Primary School in Kent. I have responsibility for PE in school and I have children regularly coming to me asking whether they can do free running / parkour activities in school and after school clubs.

I want to encourage any form of physical activity/sport in school but have absolutely no experience of this discipline.

My head is concerned saying it looks dangerous. What can I do to 1) deal with her concern, and 2) set up something within school which is safe and enjoyable without being restrictive to the kids that want to do it.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[Jazzle]

I have been in your position but as a student, trying to convince my schools head of PE.
To settle her concern, reassurance of using crash mats is vital.
I think the best way to get into the discipline is to join the children in learning the movements.
It is best to start small, low and easy in the school gym using things like gym horses and vaults.
There are many tutorial videos and sites that detail the movements and also the health and safety information related.

I hope that helps Jazzle
Let us know how you get on!

[noodlenose]

Same, just use crash mats and support each student in physically what they do