Primary Physical Education Teacher Identity

Teacher identity has emerged as a separate research area in the last few decades and draws from both the social sciences and philosophical sciences. Identity is not a new concept in teacher education nor is the development of identity. The complexity and multiplicity of teacher identity is an important factor to consider when addressing teacher attrition. There are increasing concerns about teacher self-image and public perception of the role, and we are experiencing an increasing rate of teachers leaving the profession. Increasingly, the need for early career teachers to develop a strong sense of identity has been mooted as important for their well-being. Similarly, teachers’ professional identity is a key factor in motivation and effectiveness and in turn retention. By developing their professional identity, teachers are able to give due consideration to their epistemological beliefs, educational...