Athletics - Unit Overview

The Year 6 Athletics unit is a comprehensive programme designed to enhance pupils' abilities in various athletic disciplines. Throughout the unit, students will aim to improve their running fluency and speed, including mastering hurdling techniques, and sustaining a steady pace over longer distances. They will engage in a diverse range of athletic competitions, encompassing races, throwing, and jumping events, culminating in a Sports Day style competition that integrates all the skills learned. This unit builds upon prior knowledge of different types of running such as sprinting, relay changeovers, and long-distance running, as well as jumping and throwing skills, including disciplines like the javelin and shot put.

Key to the unit's success is careful planning and adaptability, with lessons typically designed for one-hour slots including time for changing and equipment setup. Teachers are provided with tips for managing equipment needs, particularly for specialist throwing items, and suggestions for adapting activities if required. The unit encourages active participation through group activities and peer assessment, with score sheets available for lessons 3 to 6 to track progress. Each lesson has specific learning objectives and success criteria, ranging from sprinting and hurdling in lesson 1 to maintaining pace in distance running in lesson 2, and culminating in the full combination of athletics skills in a competitive environment in lesson 6, where sportsmanship and respect are also emphasised.