Physical education in the Republic of Serbia

Physical education, as an integral part of compulsory education, plays a significant role in promoting and improving the physical activity of children and youth. Having regard to the changes occurred in some segments of physical education, during the period of the full state sovereignty of the Republic of Serbia, the analysis included the following: legal framework and adopted documents, PE curriculum and program, physical education teaching conditions, educational standards, teaching staff, physical education exemptions and research in the field of physical education. The importance of physical education, which has been recognized in the legal framework, by the recommendations contained in the adopted regulations and measures, has not been implemented or practically applied. In this sense, an increased number of PE classes and uniform conditions for physical education teaching at the state level, i.e. throughout the country, should be set as a priority. The emphasis which has moved away from the curriculum and learning content towards the learning process and its outcomes, introduction of the mandatory monitoring, evaluating and recording of pupils' physical abilities and allowing pupils to be exempted only from a practical part of the PE course with an obligation to attend PE classes represent significant novelties within the subject bearing a new name (Physical and Health Education). It is necessary to assess the achievement level of educational standards, i.e. to examine the extent to which pupils have acquired knowledge and skills and developed their motor abilities upon completion of their compulsory education. Mandatory professional development of PE teachers aimed at acquiring new competences and strengthening the existing ones is important for the improvement of educational work. The research results have indicated that it is necessary to continuously monitor the prevalence of obesity and level of physical activity and motor abilities in pupils at the national level, as well as to promote healthy eating habits and encourage children to engage in physical activity and exercise.