Introducing High 5 Netball: A Fun and Inclusive Game for Schools and Clubs

Looking for a fun, inclusive way to get young people active and engaged in netball? High 5 Netball is the perfect introduction to the sport for children aged 9 to 11. Designed by England Netball, this modified version of the game develops core skills, boosts confidence, and promotes teamwork – making it ideal for primary schools and junior clubs.

Whether you're a teacher, coach, or club organiser, read on to discover what High 5 Netball is, how it differs from traditional netball, and how you can implement it successfully in your setting.

What Is High 5 Netball?

High 5 Netball is a simplified, rotational version of traditional netball. With only five players on court at a time and a strong emphasis on rotation and inclusivity, High 5 gives every child the chance to try different roles, including umpiring, timekeeping, and scoring.

It’s played on a standard netball court with lowered posts (9 feet instead of 10) and uses a smaller size 4 netball suited to younger players. The game is fast paced, engaging, and builds a strong foundation in netball skills.

Key Differences from Standard Netball

This structure ensures that all players experience every position, making the game more inclusive and educational.

How to Play High 5 Netball

High 5 Netball is easy to set up and play, making it ideal for PE lessons, after-school clubs, and junior competitions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started:

1. Set Up the Court

• • Use a standard netball court if available, or mark out a smaller area if space is limited
  • Use goalposts at 9 feet (2.74m).
  • A size 4 netball is recommended for younger players.

2. Create Teams

• • Each team has 5 players on court at any time.
  • Teams should have 7 to 9 players total to allow for rotations and rest.
    

3. Assign Positions

The five on-court positions are:

• • Goal Shooter (GS) – Shoots from inside the circle.
  • Goal Attack (GA) – Assists the shooter and can also score.
  • Centre (C) – Links defence and attack, restarts play.
  • Goal Defence (GD) – Marks attackers and intercepts passes.
  • Goal Keeper (GK) – Defends the goal circle and tries to stop shots.

Use a rotation chart to ensure all players get a turn in each position over the course of a session or tournament.

4. Include Off-Court Roles

Players not on court take on important responsibilities:

• • Timekeeper – Times the match and rotations.
  • Scorer – Records goals scored.
  • Centre Pass Marker – Tracks whose turn it is to take the centre pass.

This ensures every child is involved and learning throughout the session.

5. Follow the Basic Rules

• • The game begins with a centre pass from the Centre.
  • Players can hold the ball for a maximum of 4 seconds.
  • Only GS and GA can shoot, and only from within the shooting circle.
  • Players must stay in their allowed zones and avoid contact.
  • The ball must be touched in each third of the court before reaching the goal third.
  • Defenders must stand 1 metre away from the player with the ball.

6. Rotate Regularly

• • Positions should change every quarter or after each mini-game.
  • Ensure all players have a chance to play each position and off-court role.

Benefits for Schools and Clubs

• Builds Fundamental Skills: Passing, shooting, defending, and footwork are developed equally.
• Promotes Teamwork and Responsibility: Rotating through roles helps children understand the game from every perspective.
• Inclusive and Accessible: Suitable for mixed-gender groups and varying abilities.
• Engages Reluctant Participants: Fun, fast gameplay makes it ideal for children new to sport.

How to Implement High 5 Netball in Schools

• Start Small
  • Begin with basic skills in PE lessons – passing, movement, and shooting – then introduce simple gameplay.
• Download a Rotation Chart
  • Use a rotation sheet to ensure all children experience different positions fairly.
• Assign Off-Court Roles
  • Involve everyone – let pupils score, keep time, or mark the centre pass to promote responsibility.
• Use the Right Equipment
  • Use size 4 netballs and 9ft goalposts if available. Adjustable posts are ideal.
• Focus on Fun and Learning
  • Keep scores optional, celebrate improvement, and encourage peer support.

Tips for Teachers and Coaches

• Rotate Positions Every Quarter or Game
  • Use printed rotation sheets to keep it organised and fair.
• Encourage Positive Feedback
  • Peer praise builds confidence, especially in newer players.
• Adapt for Space and Numbers
  • Use smaller courts or modify team sizes if needed.
• Link to Curriculum Goals
  • High 5 supports teamwork, communication, and physical literacy.
• Hold a Mini Tournament
  • Inter-class or inter-school events can be a great motivator.

Fun Fact

High 5 Netball was introduced to encourage lifelong participation in sport and many professional netball players started with High 5 in primary school!

Recommended Equipment for High 5 Netball

We recommend the following products for schools and clubs looking to introduce High 5 Netball:

• Size 4 Netballs – Ideal for Primary Age
• Adjustable Netball Posts – Perfect for 9ft Gameplay
• High 5 Netball Bib Sets – Colour-coded for Quick Rotation
• Netball Coaching Resource Packs

Explore our Netball Equipment Range to get everything you need to run High 5 Netball sessions with ease.

Get Started with High 5 Netball Today

High 5 Netball is more than just a game – it’s a brilliant teaching tool that nurtures young athletes in a supportive, inclusive environment. Whether you're introducing netball in PE, running an after-school club, or setting up a friendly competition, High 5 is the perfect place to start.

Ready to bring High 5 Netball to your school or club? Shop our full netball range or contact us for advice on equipment and set-up.