Physical Education in the Primary School

This book provides a scientific foundation for the design of physical education and movement education at the primary or elementary school level, focusing on the developmental stage between 6 and 12 years of age. Drawing on cutting-edge contemporary research, the book examines physical education as a process for promoting the holistic development and well-being of children, taking a close look at developmental milestones across motor, cognitive, social, and emotional competencies. It considers the implications of current research for teaching strategies at primary or elementary level, and explores key topics in contemporary physical education such as physical literacy, physical activity and health, inclusion, and models-based practice. The book also presents thought-provoking discussions on the use of technology and artificial intelligence in primary physical education, and considers the significance of primary physical education in the context of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Written by an international team of researchers, this book is an invaluable resource for teacher educators, trainee teachers, and in-service practitioners with an interest in physical education in the primary or elementary school.

Markel Rico-González is Assistant Professor in the Department of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Corporal Expression at the University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Spain. He is the author of more than 100 scientific articles in journals and more than 25 book chapters. He is also the co-editor of the book The Use of Applied Technology in Team Sport (Routledge, 2021) and editor of the book Physical Education in Early Childhood: Movement and Development from 3 to 6 Years (Routledge, 2025). Nagore Martinez-Merino is Lecturer in the Department of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Corporal Expression at the University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Spain. She is a member of the GIKAFIT research group (Gizartea-Gizartea, Kirola eta Ariketa Fisikoa Ikerkuntza Taldea/ Research Group on Society, Sport and Physical Activity) and the research network ‘LGBTI, physical education and sport’. Her interests as a researcher fluctuate between qualitative research, transformative education, school sport, gender perspective, inclusion and experiences of physical activity in vulnerable populations.