In fifth and sixth grades physical education introduces students to the application of specific sports rules, skills, team concepts, and philosophies. Students participate in athletic activities that correlate with the interscholastic sports opportunities available to students beginning in grade 7. Coaches nurture a positive and competitive atmosphere as students hone their skills. Each class begins with an adequate flexibility and warm-up period followed by a review of rules, skills and concepts. Students finish the class period with drills of new skills and integration of skills in game situations. Competitive teams are randomly assigned for end-of-unit tournaments.

Seventh and Eighth grade students participate in a minimum of two competitive seasons of athletics per year. If a student chooses not to play one season, a health and fitness class is available for the athletic period. Both options allow students to understand the biomechanical principles of exercise and to develop team sports skills and concepts. The Oakridge School offers three seasons of athletics: fall, winter, and spring. Students do not try out for teams at Oakridge and no players are "cut" from athletics. This philosophy is important to the school and allows all children to experience and strive for success.