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      Retaining heat: heat escape lessening position and huddle position

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can perform a variety of heat retention positions on my own and with a group.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: holding a balanced, stable posture in the Heat Escape Lessening Position is essential to maximise heat retention.
      2. Think: a range of equipment can help support a floating position in the water.
      3. Feel: confidence is required to give ideas and opinions in a group discussion.
      4. Connect: working with a group involves being responsible so that everyone is in the huddle in an appropriate position.

      Keywords

      • Balance - maintaining a desired shape in a stationary position, completely still

      • Heat Escape Lessening Position - a position a person will make in the water to retain as much body heat as possible.

      • Teamwork - when people work together and help each other to reach a shared goal

      Common misconception

      Signalling for help in the water should be done by waving the arms about.

      Waving the arms in an emergency could be confusing. Signal for help by raising one arm directly upwards and shouting help.

      Teacher tip

      The HELP can be recapped throughout lessons every time the teacher commands pupils to do it.

      Equipment

      a range of different equipment that would float, blindfold, cones

      Content guidance

      Additional qualification required

      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 do you do with your arm to signal for help?

      wave
      Correct answer: straight up
      swing

      Q2.
      What does carefully listening and sharing ideas involve?

      Correct answer: communication
      respect
      trust

      Q3.
      Which flag means danger, no swimming?

      black and white
      orange
      Correct answer: red

      Q4.
      How many water safety messages are there?

      5
      3
      Correct answer: 4

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What skill do we need to hold our bodies completely still in a shape?

      speed
      power
      Correct answer: balance

      Q2.
      What do you do with your arm to signal for help?

      wave
      Correct answer: straight up
      swing

      Q3.
      What is it called when everyone works together towards a shared goal?

      communication
      Correct answer: teamwork
      teamship

      Q4.
      What is needed to be able to share your ideas with a group?

      Correct answer: confidence
      commitment
      calmness

      To help you plan your all physical education lesson on: Retaining heat: heat escape lessening position and huddle position, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...