Challenges facing life skills and life orientation subject advisors in implementation of physical education

Abstract

Subject Advisors of Life Skills (LS) and Life Orientation (LO) provide professional support and guidance to teachers and monitor the implementation of the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement. This study aimed to offer an understanding of the challenges faced by LS/LO Subject Advisors (SUBADVs) in guiding teachers to deliver Physical Education (PE) in schools in the Free State Province of South Africa effectively, within an ecosystemic theoretical framework. This study forms part of a larger research project looking into the effective implementation of PE in South African schools. A qualitative research approach and a grounded theory methodology was adopted. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten SUBADVs in LS and LO in the Foundation, Intermediate and Senior Phases from the five education districts in the Free State. Data collected were transcribed verbatim and qualitative content analysis was applied. Major challenges encountered by SUBADVs with the implementation of PE are the lack of facilities and resources in schools, a lack of knowledge and understanding of PE by LS/LO teachers and the need for training in this regard. These issues necessitate appropriate in-service training for SUBADVs and teachers alike.

Keywords: Physical education; Life skills; Life orientation; Subject advisors; Teacher support; Curriculum implementation.