The legal basis of physical education varies from country to country, but there are some common themes and principles that can be identified. Here are some of the main legal bases of physical education:
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Constitutional provisions: In some countries, the legal basis for physical education can be found in the constitution. For example, in the Philippines, Section 19 of the Philippine Constitution of 1987 stipulates the importance of physical education for the development of character and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle.
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Legislation and policies: Many countries have specific laws or policies that require schools to provide physical education. These laws and policies may outline the goals and objectives of physical education, as well as the minimum amount of time that should be dedicated to it. For example, in the United States, the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 and the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 both include provisions for physical education in schools.
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International agreements: Some countries may be bound by international agreements that require them to provide physical education. For example, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child includes a provision that calls for the provision of physical education and the promotion of the right to play and participate in recreational activities.
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Health and well-being: Physical education is often seen as a means of promoting health and well-being among students. This can be a strong legal basis for the inclusion of physical education in schools, as governments have a responsibility to protect and promote the health of their citizens.
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Character development: Physical education is also seen as a means of developing character and promoting positive values among students. This can be another legal basis for the inclusion of physical education in schools, as governments have a responsibility to promote the moral and social development of their citizens.
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Competence and skill development: Physical education is often seen as a means of developing competence and skills among students. This can be a legal basis for the inclusion of physical education in schools, as governments have a responsibility to ensure that their citizens have the knowledge and skills necessary to participate fully in society.
