Implementation of the statutory requirement of two physical education lessons at primary schools remains challenging

The Mulier Institute's research shows that schools are increasingly turning to (alternative) outdoor sports facilities. The KVLO is concerned about this development because it puts the quality of good physical education, the achievement of core objectives and the teaching of learning pathways under pressure.

What is the situation?

Municipalities are responsible for providing sufficient and suitable accommodation for physical education. This statutory duty of care relates to gymnasiums, sports halls and large sports halls, because these facilities are suitable for all learning pathways and core objectives of physical education. In many cases, the alternative facilities do not meet the minimum requirements described in the VNG (Association of Netherlands Municipalities) Model Regulation (local regulations on educational accommodation can be found at overheid.nl and in the quality framework of Ruimte OK (drawn up on behalf of the VO Council, PO Council and VNG). In addition, outdoor facilities often fall short in areas such as (social) safety and working conditions.

What happens next?

In municipalities where these gyms and halls are not available in the short term, schools can consult with municipalities about alternatives. For example, they could partially make use of outdoor sports facilities.

However, the guiding principle always remains: two 45-minute lessons in the gymnasium. If this is not feasible, (temporary) solutions can be considered in which (at least) 60 minutes of the lesson is held indoors and 30 minutes at, for example, an outdoor sports facility. The core objectives and learning pathways must always be assessed against the available facility in order to safeguard the quality of physical education. This can be done using the learning pathway analysis and checklist from Impuls Bewegingsonderwijs.

Need help?

Is your school also facing the problems described above? The guide to facilities for physical education from Impuls Bewegingsonderwijs describes the main obstacles and possible solutions step by step. The IHP introductory document from Ruimte-OK can also provide help and guidance. Still have a question? Then contact the KVLO's education advisers.

Want to know more about the new legislation?

The OCW brochure answers frequently asked questions about the number-of-hours requirement.