PE Successes in Maitri School: Paving the Future of Inclusive Physical Education for Autism

Mr Albin Low Xuan Han- Subject Head (APE, PVA & CCA), Maitri School

As a newly established school, I am filled with immense joy and pride to share our journey of growth with the SPEA community. Over the years, I have witnessed remarkable progress in the special education (SPED) sector, particularly in the evolving landscape of physical education (PE). It is heartening to see a stronger emphasis on sports within PE, especially with the implementation of Sports Teaching and Learning Strategies (TLS), which provide a structured framework for all SPED schools. At Maitri School, we are committed to delivering a comprehensive and inclusive PE program that aligns with the SPED PE TLS, ensuring every student has meaningful opportunities to develop essential physical skills for lifelong well-being.

In 2020, our journey began at our first holding site—Metta School—where PE lessons took place in a small corner of the canteen. Many wondered how it was possible for me to conduct PE for students with moderate to severe Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in such an open, unconfined space. Yet, we made it work by adopting research-backed strategies such as video modelling, visual supports, and first-then instruction, while also fostering strong collaboration among teachers, teacher assistants (TAs), and allied health professionals (AHPs). This teamwork was instrumental in creating a structured and engaging PE environment. Additionally, we took a forward-thinking approach by gradually exposing students to unstructured spaces in PE, helping them develop self-regulation and adaptability—skills that are essential for navigating everyday environments.

Metta School – Corner of School Canteen/Foyer 2

Creating Engaging and Future-Ready PE Lessons

To make physical fitness enjoyable, we integrate music that resonates with our students, including their favourite genres like Cocomelon and trending pop tracks. Incorporating familiar and preferred sounds into fitness activities, such as running, transforms the session into an engaging, stimulating, and inclusive experience. Beyond making PE fun, our focus is on developing students’ physical stamina and endurance—an area sometimes overlooked in SPED schools. I firmly believe that building physical fitness from an early age is essential for daily living and will empower our students as they transition into the workforce and wider community.

We have adopted a structured, long-term approach to fundamental movement skills (FMS), providing an extended runway for skill development over four to five years. During this period, we emphasise on gross motor movements and manipulative skills, laying a strong foundation before progressing into sports-based activities. This intentional scaffolding ensures that students develop competence and confidence in movement, fostering a lifelong appreciation for physical activity.

Fundamental movement skill – underhand throw, in an open setting

Bridging School, Home, and Community in PE

Recognising the crucial role of families, we developed Home-Based Learning (HBL) PE packages that encourage parents to actively participate in their children’s fitness journey. These packages provide engaging home exercise ideas and include QR codes linking to instructional videos, enabling parents to follow guided workouts. This family-centred approach strengthens home-school connections and allows parents to share their children’s progress with our educators, creating a collaborative and holistic learning experience.

Beyond parents, we have also extended our partnerships to the broader community. Students teachers from the National Institute of Education (NIE) have brought their sports programs to Maitri School, giving them valuable hands-on experience in adaptive PE while allowing our students to interact with aspiring educators. These partnerships not only enrich our school’s PE curriculum and inspire the next generation of PE teachers and sports educators to consider careers in SPED.

NIE student-teachers in Action @ Maitri School, Sports Hall

Expanding Possibilities Through Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs)

At the start of 2025, we launched our Co-Curricular Activity (CCA) program to broaden students’ learning opportunities beyond traditional PE lessons. Our vision is to offer a diverse range of CCAs catering to conventional and non-conventional interests. Currently, we have introduced five CCAs: Angklung, Circus Arts, Gymnastics, Dance Pop, and Bouldering—each carefully designed to promote movement, coordination, and self-expression.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the future possibilities of PE at Maitri School. By 2028, we will transition into our new school building, providing more opportunities for innovation and growth in adaptive physical education. My goal is to expand the number of CCAs, giving students even more avenues to explore their strengths and passions. I also hope to grow our team of passionate PE educators, ensuring that all students receive high-quality, specialised instruction.

Bouldering Activity in Maitri School, Rockwall

The Future of PE: Leveraging Technology and Innovation

As we look toward the future, I am exploring how ICT (Information and Communication Technology) can revolutionise PE. By incorporating technology-driven solutions, such as motion-tracking apps, virtual PE lessons, and interactive fitness platforms, we can further enhance engagement and learning outcomes for our students. The possibilities are endless, and I am excited to pioneer new approaches to shape the future of inclusive and adaptive physical education.

At Maitri School, we believe that PE is more than just movement—it is about building confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills. With passion, innovation, and a commitment to inclusivity, we are creating a future where all students, regardless of ability, can thrive in PE and beyond.

Look to impact more students in many more years to come

About the contributor

Mr Albin Low is a PE Specialist and holding the appointment of Subject Head (APE, PVA & CCA) in Maitri School.

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