In conversation with... Mr Driver
Russell Driver’s approach to PE is built around enthusiasm, enjoyment and giving pupils every reason to get involved. Having known from Year 8 that he wanted to become a PE teacher, Russell has carried that early passion through his training, his first teaching role in Swindon and into his current position as Head of PE in Bath. His answers show a strong belief in making lessons fun, offering pupils choice where it helps, and taking the time to understand those who may be less confident or reluctant to participate. From finding new activities that capture students’ interest to using praise, encouragement and simple adaptations to keep everyone involved, his focus remains firmly on creating positive experiences through PE. In this interview, Russell reflects on the moments, people and lessons that have shaped his career so far, as well as the ambitions that continue to drive him forward.
Can you walk us through your career journey so far?
I decided I wanted to become a PE teacher while I was in Year 8 at secondary school. I was always very active as a child and couldn’t wait for PE lessons, clubs and fixtures during the school day. I worked towards that career throughout secondary school and university before completing my PGCE. My first teaching role was in Swindon, where I developed my confidence and progressed as a teacher, before moving to Bath to become a Head of Subject.
What’s a moment in your PE teaching career that really stuck with you — and why?
What’s one piece of kit you couldn’t live without in your PE cupboard — and why?
I couldn’t live without disc cones. There are so many different games and activities you can use them for, and they’re essential for marking out pitches and activity areas. You also can’t beat a nicely colour-coordinated lesson!
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If you had to use three words to describe your approach to teaching PE, what would they be?
Fun
Energy
I try to set the energy level of the lesson through my own enthusiasm.
Teamwork
One of the biggest benefits of PE is the opportunity it gives students to develop their social skills and work with their peers.
What’s the biggest challenge PE teachers face today — and how do you try to tackle it?
Apathy can be a big challenge. Some students can be reluctant to get involved if they are given the opportunity to disengage, so it’s important to find alternative, enjoyable activities that capture their interest. Pickleball has been a great recent example for us and has been really well received by students.
What changes have had a big impact on inclusion in your lessons?
Giving students an element of choice, where appropriate, has made a real difference. This might mean allowing them to choose between different sports that still meet the same invasion-game objectives, or giving them a choice of roles within a lesson. It can help students find a way to participate that works for them while still achieving the lesson aims.
What's your secret to engaging reluctant or less confident students to get involved in PE?
How do you handle rainy or bad weather days when outdoor activities aren't possible?
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Shop Dodgeball Equipment
Slazenger Safety Soft Foam 15cm Dodgeball
Slazenger Safety Soft Foam Dodgeballs - Pack of 15
Slazenger Match & Training Dodgeball
Slazenger Multi Balls - Class Pack of 30
What's your go-to song or playlist for PE lessons?
I love a cheesy playlist full of classics that everyone knows. The cool kids might roll their eyes, but deep down they all want to sing and dance along!
What’s your favourite memory from your own school days?
Most of my favourite memories come from being part of school sports teams. We had some really good cup runs in both football and rugby, and reaching the latter stages of competitions always felt like a great achievement. Of course, it also meant occasionally missing lessons to go and play, which made it even better!
What’s one thing you’d love to add to your PE curriculum if there were no restrictions?
Surfing! If there were no restrictions, I’d love to be able to introduce it as part of the PE curriculum.
Who was your most memorable teacher and why?
Mr Budd. He was young enough to relate to us and played many of the same sports that I did. I loved his lessons and always enjoyed chatting with him about the weekend’s sporting results.
If you became education secretary tomorrow, what is the first thing you would do?
I’d look at ways to tackle the teacher recruitment crisis, including exploring whether more flexible or hybrid working opportunities could be introduced for staff.
What are some personal goals you have for the future, both in and out of the classroom?
What’s the best bit of advice you’ve ever received as a teacher?
The best advice I’ve received is to remember that the conversation you have with a child could be the only meaningful conversation they have with an adult that day. Because of that, it’s important to give students your time whenever you can.
