Italian Journal of Health Education, Sports and Inclusive Didactics
HEADMASTERS’ PERCEPTIONS ON THE INTRODUCTION OF THE SPECIALIST TEACHER IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN PRIMARY SCHOOL: ORGANIZATIONAL MODEL AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES
Abstract
Law of 30 December 2021 no. 234 introduced the role of specialist teacher in physical education, in V and IV classes of primary school. The aim is to investigate perceptions and opinions of primary school headmasters on quality of physical education within the new hybrid structure. A convenience sample of headmasters completed an ad hoc-questionnaire composed of 10 questions on a 5-point Likert scale, covering teaching quality and organizational challenges. The results show that headmasters have a positive view of the quality of physical education provided by the specialist teachers; however, several issues emerged, including use of facilities, timetable planning and fragmentation of the curriculum between specialist and generalist teachers. The new 2025 National Guidelines also increased confusion as they are more nuanced and less clearly defined. Extending the specialist teachers to all classes could resolve some issues, but accompanied by organizational and infrastructural measures, ensuring high-quality physical education.
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.32043/gsd.v10i2.2001
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Italian Journal of Health Education, Sports and Inclusive Didactics
Publisher: Cares srl – REN Press (since 2026). Previously published by Gaia srl – Edizioni Universitarie Romane (2017–2025).
ISSN: 2532-3296 E-ISSN: 3103-5744