Conference 2009

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Conference 2006 - 2007
The hugely impressive new physical education facilities in Marino Institute of Education, played host to the 4th annual conference of the IPPEA on March 3rd 2007. Over 60 participants attended on the day and the feedback was very positive.

John Murphy, Chairperson of IPPEA welcomed everybody to the conference and the day’s proceedings kicked off with a lecture entitled “Safe Practice in P.E. – A Legal View” delivered by Dr. Neville Cox B.L. (Trinity College, Dublin). Dr. Cox outlined, in very practical terms, some of the issues that relate to PE and sport in a primary school context. Pre-planning and organisation were highlighted as crucial prerequisites for teachers wishing to conduct safe PE classes.

Participants then took part in workshops on “ Athletics in the P.E. Class- Catering for Mixed Ability Groupings” (conducted by Catherine Canny PCSP) or on “ Rhythmic Gymnastics” presented by Sarah Murray and Valentina Kolokova of the Irish Rhythmic Gymnastics Association. These workshops were followed by sessions on the “ Development of Fundamental Movement Skills in Junior Classes” presented by Richard Bowles (Mary Immaculate College of Education) or on “Outdoor and Adventure Activities” delivered by Caitríona Cosgrave (Marino Institute. of Education).

At that stage, everyone retired to the new canteen to enjoy a well earned lunch and to discuss the invaluable teaching tips garnered at the various workshops. Terence McWilliams (Ulster GAA Council) restarted proceedings in the afternoon with a very practical talk on the teaching of games. His core message centred on the importance of small-sided games in the development of generic skills such as catching, throwing and kicking. These fundamental skills, developed with a focus on enjoyment, can be applied across a range of sporting activities.

The final workshops of the day, “Games for Senior Classes ” conducted by Frances Murphy (St. Patrick’s College) and “Folk Dance” presented Vincent Mulvey (PCSP) brought the day’s activities to a close.

Special thanks for the smooth running of the day are due to Caitríona Cosgrove for ensuring that all aspects of the venue were in order.

Conference 2005
Venue: Mary Immaculate College, Limerick
Date : Saturday October 15th.
Click here for report and more details (Word Doc) !!!

Conference 2004
Our second annual conference was held in St. Patrick’s College, Dublin, on October the 4 th. Over 70 people were in attendance. There was a positive and encouraging response to the workshops.

Workshops included:
• Station Teaching Approach to fitness & coordination – presenter Maura Coulter
• Orienteering in Senior Classes– presenter Sadie Biddulph
• EYES Activities – presenter Richard Bowles
• Playground & Parachute Games – presenter Mairéad Weymes.

Guest speaker Dr. Niall Moyna gave an inspiring lecture. The AGM was well attended.

Conference 2003
Our first annual conference took place in St. Patrick’s College, Dublin, on October the 18 th. Over 60 members participated in or presented workshops.

Workshops delivered were:
• Folk & Creative Dance – presenters Ita Seoighe & Niamh Ni Fhaogáin
• Orienteering & Outdoor Challenges– presenters Sadie Biddulph & Tony Sweeney
• Athletics – presenters Catherine Canny & Seán Gallagher
• Games – presenters Mairéad Weymes & Richard Bowles.

Guest speaker was Mr. Liam Moggan of the NCTC, he gave a thought provoking address. There was a good attendance at the AGM.