Changing hierarchies of power in physical education using sport education

PE in its traditional form involves teaching sport in a way that is mismatched with community sport. Children moving into community sport are not necessarily well placed to fit into this environment following PE experiences. Sport education (SE), developed by Siedentop, illustrates sport as seen and played in organized community sport. The purpose of this article is to see whether SE can successfully change the hierarchy of power in PE to provide a more authentic experience. SE was introduced to two badminton groups (n=24 per group), aged 14–15, over 10 weeks with two one-hour sessions per week. Observations of lessons were made alongside individual and group interviews. Benefits and difficulties experienced from changes in power hierarchies are discussed. Recommendations are given to improve changes of power in PE, particularly for those new to teaching this model.