Alternative Provision- PE in a Bag
Melissa Palmer, Assistant Head at Torlands Academy, shares how the ‘PE in a Bag’ initiative is breaking down barriers in medical alternative provision, delivering tailored kits that make physical activity accessible, engaging, and inclusive, while fostering skills, wellbeing, and social connection for every student.
PE in a Bag – Unpacking Success and Driving Change
By Melissa Palmer, Assistant Head of School, Torlands Academy, Wave MAT Challenging Assumptions and Creating Opportunity
Physical Education in medical alternative provision (AP) has long been hampered by limiting assumptions - that our students are exempt, unable, or unwilling to participate due to their medical or emotional needs. At our trust, we’ve chosen to disrupt that narrative. The “PE in a Bag” initiative was developed to challenge these outdated beliefs and create genuine opportunities for physical activity, skill-building, and joyful movement, regardless of a student’s setting.
Tailored kits paid for through Youth Sport Trust PE in a Box funding, containing items such as yoga mats, wobble boards, badminton sets, and boules, were delivered to students learning from home. The idea was simple: remove barriers, inject novelty, and restore the fun of physical activity through personalised, accessible resources. These kits are on loan, with the aim of a termly exchange to maintain engagement and variety.
Outcomes and Impact
The two medical APs within Wave MAT (Torlands and CHES) have resourced 210 PE Bags. So far, 86 students have received kits directly into their homes, with only a small number declining them.
Student voice remains limited but promising, with ephemeral evidence from colleagues highlighting increased movement, skill development, and even social connection. A standout moment came from CHES, where two KS3 students used their PE equipment to set challenges for one another, then met in person to play - demonstrating that movement can catalyse both wellbeing and friendships. One parent summed it up beautifully: “The PE Bag is a brilliant idea - it allows children to try different games and activities.”
Reflections and Lessons Learned
While the programme has had a strong start, logistical demands (packing, delivery, and managing loans) have tested staffing resources. Clear coordination and designated leads will be crucial as we expand.
Despite this, the benefits have been clear: 'PE in a Bag' has removed barriers to participation, embedded equity into our curriculum offer, and proven that PE is both possible and powerful in medical AP.
Next Steps
We are now exploring funding streams to maintain and expand the programme, with termly equipment exchanges and improved logistical support. This is just the beginning of a bigger movement.
'PE in a Bag' exemplifies our trust’s belief in inclusion, innovation, and using a creative approach to ensure every young person can thrive. This project isn’t just about physical education; it’s about rewriting stories, building confidence, and showing that every student can have a PE journey worth telling.