Tips on adapting school physical education safety practices for a remote learning environment during COVID-19.
With remote learning providing opportunities for students to continue their Health and Physical Education (HPE) programs while meeting the overall expectations of the curriculum, OSIP.ca safety partner Ophea (Ontario Physical and Health Education Association) has put together a collection of resources that highlight the importance of adapting school safety practices to a student’s remote learning environment.
Communication is Key
According to Ophea, “establishing and maintaining safe remote physical education programs requires clear and ongoing communication regarding the policies and practices related to physical education remote learning and COVID-19.”
The association adds that school board staff and administrators “should establish processes to disseminate information, seek input and concerns, and, where appropriate, provide the necessary support for individuals responsible for safety (for example, teachers, occasional teachers, parents, students).”
Noting that remote HPE learning “is a relatively new process for teachers, students, and parents/guardians,” Ophea recommends that boards plan carefully and introduce new measures to create safe learning environments.
A Supplement to OPASSE
On the association’s website, Ophea reminds school boards and educators that its Safety Considerations for Remote Learning in Physical Education resources should be considered as “a supplement to the safety standards already available in Ontario Physical Activity Safety Standards in Education (OPASSE). The aim, says Ophea, is to provide “enhanced safety considerations specific to COVID-19 for remote physical education.”
About Ophea
Established in 1921, the Ontario Physical and Health Education Association champions “healthy, active living in schools and communities through quality programs and services, partnerships and advocacy.”
