Would You Like to Learn from You?

A personal aspiration for the future of Physical Education in Singapore

By Mr Hanif Abdul Rahman (Principal Master Teacher, PESTA)

Reflecting on my journey as a PE teacher, I often return to a simple yet profound question: Would you like to learn from you? It is a question that has guided my practice and evolution as an educator, shaping my aspirations for the future of PE in Singapore.

A Step from the Classroom to Leading the Profession

I began my career in 1998 as a young teacher, teaching PE and coaching rugby, eager to share my passion for sports with my students. Over the years, my path led me through various roles – Head of Department, Vice Principal, Master Teacher, and eventually, the first Principal Master Teacher for PE. With each transition, my perspectives on PE deepened. Teaching on the field and in the hall, leading the school-wide character development framework, inquiring as a Teach Less Learn More (TLLM) Research Activist, contributing to MOE cross-divisional taskforces, and many other experiences reveal not just the evolving needs of our students but also the ever-changing demands of education itself.

In my early years, PE was often seen as a subject centred on physical activity, skill acquisition, and fitness. While these remain integral, the role of PE has expanded significantly. Today's world requires students to be future-ready – to be adaptable, resilient, and equipped with skills that transcend the physical domain. Now, through my work at the Physical Education & Sports Teacher Academy (PESTA) for the past slightly more than a decade, I have had the privilege of shaping the professional learning of PE teachers and influencing the evolution of PE in Singapore.

A Journey of Change

Throughout my career, I have witnessed a shift in PE, from a traditionally physical discipline to a more holistic educational one. In those early years, convincing some camps was not easy. But sound rationale, data-driven justification, and a personal drive with conviction, help. Leading the PE, Art and Music (PAM) Research that started in late 2012 was my game-changer. Having a say in infusing 21st century competencies (21CC) into PE was game-changing for PE in Singapore. No longer just about sports and fitness, PE has become a platform for developing values, problem-solving skills, teamwork, social-emotional competencies, and the emerging 21CC. For the first time in the history of PE in Singapore, specific learning outcomes (LOs) for the affective domain were included in the Singapore PE Syllabus. The integration of inquiry-based learning and visible thinking routines, supplemented by differentiated instruction to increase inclusivity, have enabled PE to become more engaging, relevant, and meaningful for students.

This evolution, however, is still an ongoing endeavour. Even with the LOs clearly stated, there is still a need to continue advocating the cause and helping PE teachers enacting the expectations. Balancing the physicality of PE with cognitive and affective development, as well as social-emotional considerations, requires careful planning, intentionality, and pedagogical finesse. It demands that we, as PE teachers, rethink our purpose and approaches, and ensure that PE remains active, engaging, and enjoyable, while equipping students with skills for the future.

An Aspiration for the Future of PE in Singapore

As we celebrate 50 years of the Singapore Physical Education Association (SPEA), I look ahead with optimism and a deep sense of responsibility. My aspiration for PE in Singapore is perhaps threefold:

Maintaining the physical core

PE must never lose its essence – the joy of movement, the development of physical literacy, and the appreciation of an active and healthy lifestyle. Be true to the discipline of PE. While we incorporate broader competencies, we must ensure that students continue to engage in meaningful physical experiences.

Developing future-ready students

The world our students will navigate is dynamic and complex. PE must be a space where they cultivate problem-solving skills, learn to collaborate, and develop the adaptability needed for an uncertain future. PE should instill lifelong values – perseverance, leadership, and a growth mindset – that transcend the school years. Beyond skills, they need to acquire the necessary dispositions to thrive in the future.

Making PE fun and student-owned

One of my greatest hopes is for students to take more ownership of their learning in PE. When students find joy and meaning in movement, they develop intrinsic motivation to lead active lives. We must continue innovating our pedagogies to make PE fun, engaging, and student-driven, fostering a culture where students see themselves as active participants in their learning.

A Call to Action

As PE teachers, we must continually reflect on our own practice. The question "Would you like to learn from you?" is not just rhetorical. It is a call to action. My call to our collective action. If you are your own PE teacher, would you like to learn from you? Would you find joy in learning and be motivated in your PE lessons? Would you find your own lessons meaningful and empowering? Also, if we expect our students to be engaged, curious, and open to learning, we must model these qualities ourselves. We must be willing to adapt, innovate, and inspire, ensuring that every PE lesson is an opportunity for students to grow physically, and holistically.

Now more than ever, PE teachers must step forward with confidence and conviction. The future of our students depends on our willingness to embrace change, push boundaries, and refine our craft. Instead of being passive observers, be the active designers of learning experiences for the future of PE. Let us be bold in our aspirations, united in our purpose, and relentless in our pursuit of excellence. The time is now – let’s shape the future of PE in Singapore together.

Looking forward, I am excited about the possibilities for PE in Singapore. With passionate PE teachers, a commitment to continuous improvement, and a shared vision for the future, I believe we can make PE a subject that truly prepares our Singapore students for life – both within and beyond the playing field.

Here’s to the next 50 years of shaping lives through Physical Education.

About the Author

Mr Hanif Abdul Rahman is the Principal Master Teacher at Physical Education and Sports Teacher Academy (PESTA). Click here for more details.

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