David Bunker
A member of Loughborough University staff for 37 years, David co-developed the Teaching Games for Understanding (TGfU) approach, a programme that continues to impact Physical Education teachers and children in PE and sport worldwide.
Awarded the University Medal in 2004, his meticulous leadership of undergraduate studies in the Department of Physical Education, Sport Science and Recreation Management facilitated the Department’s reputation for high quality teaching and its expansion to the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences that it is today.
The Teaching Games for Understanding (TGfU) approach
David developed the TGfU model in the 1970s in partnership with Rod Thorpe. The model was tested by ‘critical’ audiences, students and experienced PE teachers as well as against existing curriculum theory at the time.
David’s first journal article on TGfU in the Bulletin of Physical Education (Bunker & Thorpe, 1982) has been cited almost 3000 times to date. Interest and application of the model was so great throughout the world that in 2001, an International Conference solely focused on TGfU was held in New Hampshire, USA. This biennial conference continues having been held in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Germany, New Zealand and Spain.
Beyond being a role model of service to the University as Proctor, Chairman of Wardens and Undergraduate course director, David was also one of the first sport psychologists to work with an Olympic team. He supported the GB Modern Pentathlon team that secured a Bronze medal at the Seoul Olympics in 1988.
In his retirement, David has played a key role as a member of the triumvirate who set up the Loughborough Sporting Club, spearheading significant alumni initiatives such as the Hall of Fame.