Advertisement

Exclusive: New online fitness platform launched to help schools address physical activity levels

Lockdown restrictions have led to difficulties in getting children active - CHRISTOPHER PLEDGER
Lockdown restrictions have led to difficulties in getting children active - CHRISTOPHER PLEDGER

The government has launched a new online fitness platform to help schools provide at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day for every child as families continue to cope with lockdown restrictions.

With most children having been out of school for six months, and teachers facing restrictions from guidance designed to limit the spread of Covid-19, the new YouTube content is designed to help staff deliver active minutes in a Covid-secure environment

The Department for Education’s new video collection will go live on Wednesday to coincide with National Fitness Day and shares best practice on being active in lessons, break-times and while travelling to school.

The Telegraph launched its Girls, Inspired campaign last year to close the gender gap in activity levels and the new resource will specifically include context to get more girls active, as well as inclusive activities for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

“We know that keeping active is a vital part of every child’s education, as well as being important for their mental and physical health,” said education secretary Gavin Williamson.

“Sport and physical activity can also boost our ability to cope with challenges, our resilience and our positive outlook – attributes which have never been more important.”

The government has also reiterated its commitment to get children active for at least 60 minutes every day, of which half should be during school hours.

It follows the announcement in July that primary schools in England will still receive £320 million in ringfenced funding to spend on sport and physical education.

"Staying active is vital for young people's physical and mental health and can also improve behaviour and concentration,” said the sports minister Nigel Huddleston.

The Youth Sports Trust have also published new research showing the importance of activity to parents, with wellbeing and facilities, such as sports halls and equipment, rated as the top two factors in deciding where to send their children. The YST has this week also launched its ‘Well Schools’ initiative, which encourages schools to put physical and mental wellbeing at the heart of their priorities.