Physical Health and Education (PHE) at our school is taught by a specialist teacher. All elementary students take part twice a week, developing physical skills and teamwork through a variety of activities.
The program focuses on game-play to help children strengthen coordination, balance, and movement skills. Games and sports also play an important role in supporting students’ social and emotional growth.
Lower Elementary (Years 1–3)
The Lower Elementary program helps children develop basic movement skills such as running, jumping, moving backward, and throwing and catching with both underhand and overhand motions.
Using equipment such as balls and sticks helps build the foundation for lifelong enjoyment of physical activity. Cooperative and team-based games also encourage children to work together and build confidence.
Activities include cooperative, movement, and team games such as soccer, dodgeball, handball, gaga ball, parachute games, and frisbee golf, as well as forest and spatial awareness games.
Upper Elementary (Years 4–7)
As students grow older, the Upper Elementary program continues to strengthen their movement skills through many of the same activities, with the option to participate more competitively if they choose. We also introduce games such as floor hockey, tchoukball, ultimate frisbee, kickball, and capture the flag.
Year 7 students also receive health education following the BC Physical and Health Education guidelines.
Field Trips
Field trips are an important part of the Physical Health and Education program, offering students opportunities to apply their skills beyond the classroom and explore outdoor recreation.
Both Lower and Upper Elementary students participate in ice skating and indoor rock climbing at a variety of local venues. Upper Elementary students also take part in additional outings, including hiking on Bowen Island, skiing at Cypress Mountain, and a bike hike adventure.
Terry Fox Run
All students participate in the annual Terry Fox Run to raise funds for cancer research.
Our Philosophy
At Vancouver Montessori School, we believe that participating in group game-play gives children opportunities to develop skills that go beyond the sports themselves. Our programs nurture the whole child, reflecting Maria Montessori’s belief that physical, social, and emotional growth are all connected.
