PE & Aquatics

From the earliest grades right through high school, Physical Education is an integral part of the Berkeley Carroll curriculum and is structured to promote lifetime fitness through participation in individual and team sports. There are four major curricular objectives: conceptual knowledge of movement and sports skills, development of life-long physical fitness, socialization, and enjoyment. The curriculum incorporates activities that are creative, maximize learning, and are developmentally appropriate.

For PreKindergarten children, motor development is enhanced and refined through such activities as climbing, catching and throwing, tumbling, and balancing. Classes for children in Kindergarten through 4th Grade consist of both individual and partner work, small group games, and cooperative activities. The children work and improve at their own rate. Lifetime fitness skills and cooperation are emphasized, as the children learn to respect their own abilities, as well as those of their classmates.

In addition to physical education classes, children in Kindergarten through Grade Four swim weekly. Certified swim instructors present a “learn-to swim” program, focusing on water adaptation, stroke development, and safety skills.

Middle School students have Physical Education at least three times during a 6-day cycle. Upper School students are required to fulfill a P.E. requirement each semester until the spring of senior year. This requirement may be met by participating in Upper School PE electives or by participation in dance classes or interscholastic athletics.

Fitness activities (aerobic, anaerobic, and calisthenic exercises) are a regular part of the Middle and Upper School programs. Upper School students also have the opportunity to participate in a weight-training program. Team sports taught include volleyball, soccer, team handball, floor hockey, basketball, flag football and whiffleball. Individual activities include badminton and pickleball.