Celebrating and promoting physical activity and sport in UK schools.
In a world full of tech, screens and sedentary activities, physical activity often takes a back seat – not just for children but for all of us!
However, from 16th to 22nd of June, it’s National School Sports Week in the UK – a chance for schools to prioritise sport and its effects on physical and mental wellbeing. Schools are being encouraged to host games, inclusive activities and competitions that can provide all children with a chance to participate, regardless of their ability.
Why is physical activity important
It’s in everyone’s interests to get moving, as sitting down too much can be a health risk. The NHS reports that studies have linked inactivity with being overweight, type 2 diabetes and even some forms of cancer.
Promoting sport and physical activities in school can help students to become engaged and develop healthier habits – as well as become more social, boost their self-esteem and raise their confidence.
How to get involved
In addition to team sports, there are all sorts of ways to get students moving – for example, with frisbee challenges, mini gym workouts, skipping ropes, hopscotch, dancing and more.
Ali Oliver MBE, Chief Executive of the Youth Sport Trust said, “National School Sports Week plays a vital role in our mission to ensure every child has access to sport and physical activity, as well as promoting the holistic benefits of PE, sport and play. With fewer than half of young people in the UK currently meeting the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity, it is imperative schools, families and organisations work together to tackle this current health crisis…”
