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Physical Education Specialist grad on the move
Vicki Webster, in leopard-print wrap, strikes a pose with her classmates during a dance lesson in the Physical Education Specialist Program..
"Though there were many times we were in the classroom learning theory, there were just as many times we took an active part in learning about PE. That's what made this program both enjoyable and successful," says Webster, a grade 4 teacher at Frost Road Elementary School in Surrey.
"The most memorable moments were the many opportunities we had throughout the program to be active in the gym, orienteering in a park, canoeing at a lake, hiking on a trail, dancing in a studio, balancing on bars or riding bikes in a bike rodeo," says Webster.
The PE Specialist Program is a two-year, post-degree diploma program designed to give working teachers the skills and knowledge needed to become a PE specialist.
A teacher since 1989, Webster had a life-long interest in physical fitness. Prior to teacher's college, Webster picked up a BSc in Kinesiology (Simon Fraser). But still, she felt something was missing.
"I think that before taking the program I did an alright job teaching PE to my students, but I always felt I lacked the expertise to make my program better," says Webster.
"Specifically, the program gave me a foundation of skills, strategies and ideas to build a quality and varied program that allowed for adaptations for all my students to succeed," she explains.
Webster says these skills are useful to any teacher, not just PE teachers. "All school teachers, kindergarten to grade 12, should be encouraged to take this program," she says.
Webster recalls as a child, her own PE experience was a positive one. By taking the specialist program, she says she is better equipped to make PE fun for children of all abilities.
"My hope is that my students learn to love moving and learn activities that they can continue outside of school and throughout their lifetime. Including a variety of activities in a PE program, not only sport-related competitive games, allows all students that chance to succeed and enjoy," says Webster.
The PE Specialist Program is recognized by the provincial Teacher Qualification Service, meaning its graduates are eligible for an increase in salary. Classes are held in evenings and online, along with two-week summertime workshops.
