What does the research say?

• Physically active children have greater physical and mental wellbeing and engage more in the classroom, stay in school longer and have less educational disparity with improved learning outcomes.
  
  
• Physical activity experiences regulate children’s mood and behaviour, so can play a key role in helping children cope with stressful situations.
  
  
• Physical activity experiences can be an effective strategy to build connection with students, particularly the ones we find more challenging.
  
  
• Participation in quality PA and sport improves self-confidence, self-esteem and physical self-perceptions in young people, resulting in fewer depressive symptoms and improved overall cognitive and mental health.
  
  
• Sport and physical activity have the potential to strengthen social networks and build a sense of belonging across schools and communities, impacting on staff wellbeing as well as student wellbeing
  
  
• Physical activity is linked to improved cognitive function, control, planning, concentration, attention, reasoning and on-task behaviour.
  
  
• Physical activity plays a significant role in kids experiencing joy and fun and makes school a place where young people ‘want to be’