Happiness Factories explores the ideas, concepts and arguments behind an expanded focus in physical education beyond just the physical. It attempts to discuss the value and benefits of identifying other aspects - whether we call these 'holistic strands', 'character traits', 'life skills' or something else - that we can introduce into our curriculum design to identify other areas that our subject potentially touches on and influences. Taking the reflections and thoughts of PE educators, leaders and academics from across the world, Happiness Factories will seek to offer reflections and practical ideas for adapting PE provision to widen the impact for all pupils, regardless of their specific contexts and the book argues that a physically rich, dynamic and context-driven curriculum approach will expand opportunities for success for all, in turn inspiring future generations of PE pupils to strive for greater engagement, understanding and progression in all aspects of PE. Happiness Factories is the story of the author's career in PE, reflecting on the lessons he has learned, with the successes (and failures) along the way. It presents an alternative view of what modern, meaningful PE can look like and encourages all PE teachers, regardless of their unique context, to reflect on their own practice and the emphasis of the provision they give to their pupils.
Phil Mathe is an international PE teacher with over 15 years' experience of working in, leading and developing PE departments and PE curricula. Having worked in five unique geographical, cultural and socio-economic environments, Phil has developed a passionate belief that PE can be more than a series of disconnected physical experiences and strives to encourage a more joined-up, holistic and pupil-focused approach to PE. Phil is a passionate advocate for the idea that 'context is key' and that every school should provide a meaningful PE programme that works specifically for the pupils within their school. A lifelong love of physical activity and sport drives Phil's motivation to encourage all pupils to engage with and experience success through physically rich, active and diverse opportunities and he regularly speaks on the subject at conferences and events globally. Phil has undertaken a MA in Education, focused on the provision of holistic education within an international context and brings this research into his work. Married with teenage children, Phil has seen first-hand the importance of encouraging engagement but also has a clear understanding that different pupils must be given different focuses, provision and ultimately a wide range of opportunities to experience success through physical education.
