Inclusive Practice in Physical Education: Sport and Activity

Synonyms

Inclusion; Inclusion spectrum; Multi-abilities; Pedagogy; Physical activity; Physical education, Sport

Introduction

Inclusive practice in physical education is a conflated term. With greater understanding needed in education for social justice and equity, the use of the term has broadened. Inclusion has been used globally to describe practices that “include” everyone regardless of ability, race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexuality, religion, socioeconomic status, care status, or any other characteristic that could potentially discriminate, or hinder. It is firmly rooted to disability rights, where everyone should freely and openly accept someone with a disability without restriction or pity. When using the term inclusion within the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) community through physical education, sport and activity (PESA), it is often associated with ensuring access to activities is available, regardless of perceived “ability.” However, we must strive to...