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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can understand and explain the footwork rule and can apply the correct footwork when receiving the ball.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: applying the correct footwork involves pivoting on our landing foot and moving our other foot to change diection.
      2. Move: if we land on both feet at the same time, we can choose which foot we pivot on and which foot will move.
      3. Think: it is important to apply the correct footwork as we lose possession if we move incorrectly with the ball.
      4. Feel: listening to the umpires and respecting the rules shows we have integrity when playing the game.
      5. Connect: collaborating to understand the rules and different positions within the game shows respect for one another.

      Keywords

      • Footwork - how a player is allowed to move their feet after catching or receiving the ball so players do not gain an unfair advantage.

      • Possession - the team in control of the ball

      • Pivot - rotating or turning on one foot while keeping that foot in contact with the ground after catching the ball.

      Common misconception

      Pupils often think they can freely move their pivot foot by dragging and sliding it. Pupils continue to move a few steps when holding the ball.

      Reinforce the importance of keeping the pivot foot stationary and continue to practise the correct way to pivot. Remind pupils that stepping when holding the ball is a rule break and their team loses possession.

      Teacher tip

      Allow pupils up to 2 steps when applying the footwork technique as this will support pupils learning the rules of the game, as well as their balancing skills. Chunking the explanation throughout the practice when introducing the two different landings will help pupils understanding.

      Equipment

      1 netball between 2 pupils, 30+ floor markers, 30+ cones, 6 targets/ netball posts

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What is the name used to describe the area of space we play netball on?

      arena
      Correct answer: court
      play area

      Q2.
      How are your feet positioned when shooting?

      out wide
      together
      Correct answer: shoulder width apart

      Q3.
      What’s the name for a player on your team?

      Correct answer: teammate
      defender
      player

      Q4.
      How can you show resilience in netball?

      scoring
      cheating
      Correct answer: not giving up

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What happens if you break the footwork rule?

      Correct answer: lose possession
      have to pass
      you go backwards

      Q2.
      How can you move the foot you are pivoting on?

      drag it
      Correct answer: rotate it
      slide it

      Q3.
      What is the word to describe turning on one foot?

      Correct Answer: pivot, pivoting

      Q4.
      Why is it important to listen to the umpire?

      to win
      to show resilience
      Correct answer: to show integrity

      To help you plan your 3 physical education lesson on: Footwork, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...