The aim of the Physical Education department is to provide a broad and balanced sporting programme and to stimulate a lifelong interest in physical activities both within and outside school. The department aims to equip students with the knowledge and understanding that will enable them to lead a healthy lifestyle both now and in the future.
Regular participation in physical activity helps build character, allows pupils to develop physically and socially provides an opportunity to build relationships with others.
Mr P Wright (Head of Department)
Mr S Daly
Facilities
· 3-court Sports Hall
· Gymnasium
· Fitness Suite
· Spin Studio
· 2 x Full size GAA pitches (shared with St Patrick’s Grammar)
· 1 x 3G GAA pitch (shared with St Patrick’s Grammar)
· Down Leisure Centre
· Kilmore Rec football pitches
Pupils are timetabled for one 60 minute of PE per week. The school year is divided into half-termly teaching blocks of approximately 5-6 weeks. Indoor and outdoor activities as well as individual and team games are offered and pupils are encouraged to take part in all activities. Across a typical year, pupils can expect to participate in traditional sports such as Gaelic and soccer, but also volleyball, badminton, basketball, athletics and fitness amongst others.
The focus in Key Stage 4 & 5 is on encouraging lifelong participation. The programme of activities is less prescriptive and pupils are encouraged to take part in PE as part of a healthy, active lifestyle, with emphasis put on developing not just their physical well-being, but also recognising the mental and social benefits of participation.
De La Salle has an excellent record of academic achievement in examination PE. Currently we offer the Level 2 BTEC in Sport at Key Stage 4. Traditionally, a large number of pupils follow this course in Year 11 and 12. Modules on offer include Fitness for Sport and Exercise, Practical Sports Performance, Training for Personal Fitness and Leading Sports Events. This course provides an ideal foundation for those pupils wishing to continue studying a sports-related subject at post-16.
In Year 13 & 14 we offer the Level 3 BTEC Subsidiary Diploma – equivalent to one A-level. Success at this level is very high, with all pupils achieving a Merit or Distinction grade in both 2017 and 2018. This is an excellent stepping stone for those wishing to pursue a sports-related degree or career.
De La Salle has a history of sporting success. We compete in the North Down Soccer Leagues across all age groups and enter teams in the Northern Ireland Cup. In 2018 our U14 team won the North Down League and were beaten semi-finalists in the U14 Northern Ireland Plate.
In Gaelic football, De La Salle compete in a number of Ulster Colleges competitions. In recent seasons we have won the Oisin McGrath Shield and Faul Cup and have played in several other finals.
Copyright © De La Salle High School - Downpatrick 2023
Take Care, Show Care, Teach Care, Evoke Care