Happiness Factories: A success-driven approach to holistic Physical Education
Happiness Factories explores the ideas, concepts and arguments behind an expanded focus in physical education beyond just the physical. It attempts to discuss the value and benefits of identifying other aspects – whether we call these ‘holistic strands’, ‘character traits’, ‘life skills’ or something else – that we can introduce into our curriculum design to identify other areas that our subject potentially touches on and influences. Taking the reflections and thoughts of PE educators, leaders and academics from across the world, Happiness Factories will seek to offer reflections and practical ideas for adapting PE provision to widen the impact for all pupils, regardless of their specific contexts and the book argues that a physically rich, dynamic and context-driven curriculum approach will expand opportunities for success for all, in turn inspiring future generations of PE pupils to strive for greater engagement, understanding and progression in all aspects of PE. Happiness Factories is the story of the author’s career in PE, reflecting on the lessons he has learned, with the successes (and failures) along the way. It presents an alternative view of what modern, meaningful PE can look like and encourages all PE teachers, regardless of their unique context, to reflect on their own practice and the emphasis of the provision they give to their pupils.
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Reviews
Whether you're new to physical education or an old hand, Happiness Factories collates the traditional approaches and modern thinking around this great subject and confirms there is not just one way to teach PE. Phil Mathe's humble and honest reflections allow you to reflect on your own practices and approaches to teaching and curriculum development. I would recommend this book to any PE teacher who wants practical, research-led information on how to develop their own PE curriculum in their own context and consider the many case studies from around the globe included in this book.
This book is an easy read that requires you to pick it up and put it down quite often, as it contains constant reflection points throughout. Weaved neatly within relevant theory and the reality of teaching PE, a number of international colleagues share their ways to 'happiness', which promote further reflection in and on action.
It's a slow burner, calling you to read more, to consider your own practice and engage in reflective action.
A refreshing recalibration that provokes our practice. It reminds our fraternity of the unique impact that physical education possesses in educating our learners. Phil cleverly pieces together academic research alongside international examples that demonstrates best practice from around the globe. A tribute to our sharing and caring profession.