Exploring Cross-Curricular PE Activities for Primary Schools
Physical education doesn’t have to sit in isolation from academic subjects. In fact, when used creatively, PE can reinforce learning in core curriculum areas while helping pupils develop physical competence and confidence. How can PE be used to support other areas of the curriculum in primary schools? Schools across the UK are increasingly implementing cross-curricular PE activities for primary schools. This approach makes learning more dynamic, memorable, and inclusive.
Cross-curricular PE involves integrating academic content — such as maths, English, science, or geography — into movement-based activities. Examples include solving number problems during relay races, spelling challenges in team games, or exploring natural sciences through outdoor physical tasks.
By linking movement with learning, schools can reach pupils who thrive on active engagement and support kinaesthetic learners. This approach promotes physical literacy across the timetable.
Why Cross-Curricular Learning in PE Works
Cross-curricular approaches help consolidate academic concepts in an interactive, hands-on way. They promote:
- Stronger engagement – especially for learners who struggle in traditional classroom settings.
- Improved retention – movement supports memory and long-term learning.
- Creativity and problem-solving – pupils apply knowledge in real-world, practical scenarios.
- Whole-child development – combining cognitive and physical tasks builds resilience, collaboration, and emotional regulation.
For schools focused on curriculum innovation and personal development, using cross-curricular PE activities for primary schools is a smart and engaging strategy. It meets multiple goals at once.
It’s also a great way to inject physical activity into parts of the school day that might otherwise be sedentary. This helps schools increase movement time and contribute to the daily 60-minute physical activity target.
How PE Can Support Specific Subjects
Here are just a few examples of how PE can support other areas of learning:
- Maths: Use target games to reinforce number bonds, multiplication tables, or time measurement.
- English: Explore storytelling through dance or movement-based drama.
- Science: Demonstrate heart rate, body systems, or forces through fitness tasks and experiments.
- Geography: Recreate physical landscapes and directional games to understand maps and environments.
- PSHE: Use team games to teach communication, fairness, and respect.
When these activities are thoughtfully planned, they enhance both physical and academic development.
How Sprint Active Delivers Cross-Curricular PE Programmes
Sprint Active offers a range of cross-curricular PE activities for primary schools. These activities are carefully designed to support both movement and academic learning. Our experienced coaches deliver sessions that connect PE with core subjects, helping to boost engagement, inclusivity, and outcomes.
We also offer themed weeks, enrichment clubs, and CPD for staff looking to integrate physical activity into the wider curriculum. Whether you’re introducing a small change or developing a whole-school active learning strategy, we provide the ideas, training, and delivery support to make it happen.
👉 See how we support cross-curricular learning on the School Services page
