We here at Pogo Pulse are proud to be working with The Institute of Education, Faculty of Education at St. Mary’s University Twickenham, London in developing CPD training for P.E teachers in Pogo Pulse. All this has been made possible thanks to the leadership and guidance from Dr Julie Pearson Senior Lecturer – Primary Physical Education SFHEA and Emma Newman Senior Lecturer PGCE Physical Education.
For over 30 years, Julie Pearson has taught physical education within primary, secondary higher education settings. She completed her PhD in 2019* and suggests that teachers of physical education should develop a more holistic and relational approach to teaching and learning to care with those involved in the practice. She continues to reflect upon her own practice as she supports primary school trainee teachers to become more confident and competent in their own practice.
Initially as a teacher educator, I was drawn to Pogopulse because it not only supported people to become physically active, but it also allows people to recognise and developtheir social and emotional well-being. I remembered the many hours spent playing on my pogo stick, trying to be Skippy the Bush Kangaroo (old skool series), or simply designing challenges to jump over boxes, across 2 paving slabs, up kerbs, and even creating intricate escape routes for me, the best MI5 spy! My cognitive and emotional skills were certainly enhanced through my moments on my pogo stick.
I see so many positives in children and young people becoming involved in Pogopulse as they can literally take basic skills to new heights. Pogoing is an open activity that allows people to be alone yet, still be with others. It is an activity that develops skills such as balance, timing, breathing, core strength and coordination which all merge to challenge the rider to become more confident, competent and focussed in their actions. The art of pogoing develops actions that reflect a steady heartbeat and a challenge for each individual to find their own rhythm in life.