The Primary PE Conference 2025: A day full of movement, motivation and meaningful takeaways

What a fantastic day we had at The Primary PE Conference 2025, a celebration of everything great about primary PE, packed with energy, insight and inspiring practice.
Inspiring Keynotes that set the tone
We were honoured to welcome Vanessa King (afPE) to open the conference. Her keynote on the EYFS Motor Screening Programme brought early years PE into sharp focus. Vanessa highlighted the importance of spotting motor difficulties early and how simple, practical screening can support our youngest learners to thrive.
Later in the morning, Jo Hodge, Headteacher at Holt Primary School, took to the main stage to share her school's journey in creating a PE department from the ground up. Her story showed what’s possible with clear vision, strong leadership and a belief in the power of PE to change school culture. It was both practical and inspiring, exactly what you want from a keynote.
Workshops that delivered real value
Across three workshop blocks, delegates had the chance to dig into topics that matter most in their schools. From curriculum planning and assessment in PE, to boosting physical activity levels, SEND inclusion, intra-school competition, dance and gymnastics.
Each workshop was designed with active participation in mind, grounded in evidence but rich in practical strategies ready to take back to school.
An energising boost from Drumba
Our headline sponsor, Drumba, brought the energy with an interactive and unforgettable energiser session after lunch. Delegates got moving with drumsticks in hand, reminding us that PE doesn’t have to look traditional to be powerful. Fun, fast-paced and full of rhythm, it was a real highlight.
Physically Active Learning in action
Throughout the day, delegates wore Moki bands to track movement and capture just how active the conference really was. We’re excited to be analysing the results and will be sharing the data soon, it’s safe to say the levels of physically active learning were impressive!
A fitting finale
We wrapped up the day with a prize draw, some final reflections and a real sense of community and momentum. Conversations sparked at the conference will no doubt lead to long-lasting change in schools across the region.
Thank you!
A huge thank you to our speakers, workshop leaders, sponsors and every single delegate who brought such energy and passion to the day. The Primary PE Conference 2025 was a celebration of what’s possible when we come together to put PE at the heart of school life.
We had a brilliant day celebrating the power of primary PE and we’re already looking ahead to next year—details for the next conference will be shared very soon!