Physical activity in schools and kura

Te korikori tinana i ngā kura

Why is physical activity important?

Sport NZ is committed to supporting schools and kura so all students can access quality physical activity experiences and enjoy being active in ways that suit them. This enhances their learning and contributes to their wellbeing.

We know physically active tamariki and rangatahi experience:

enhanced social connection and relationships
improved sense of belonging and identity
better engagement in school-based activities
enhanced physical wellbeing
enhanced mental health and wellbeing
improved school achievement and attendance.

What is quality physical activity?

Within the education setting there are numerous opportunities to ensure tamariki and rangatahi have access to enriching physical activity experiences. 

That could be through ensuring the delivery of quality health and physical education, integrating movement into other learning areas, providing quality sport experiences, ensuring there is space and time to play, or connecting to Te Ao Māori through te taiao (the environment).

We support schools in a number of ways to develop quality physical activity environments including resources, funding and support, and programmes and initiatives.

Resources

Reviewing your school's physical activity approach

A kit of resources to support ākonga and schools to review their approach to physical activity, explore and trial new ideas, and make those changes last. Originally developed for years 1-8 the resource is relevant to the secondary school space as well.

Supporting schools

Movewell

Download a copy of MoveWell, the practical games-based resource that links to the health and physical education curriculum.

Movewell

Te Hauora me Te Akoranga Koiri Health and PE Curriculum

Policy and guidance, teaching and learning resources, and professional development support to ensure the delivery of quality health and physical education.

Te Hauora me Te Akoranga Koiri Health & Physical Education website

Research

Read the latest research focused on the physical activity experiences of tamariki and rangatahi at school and kura.

See the research

Inclusivity Hub

The Inclusivity Hub has practical guidance, policy templates, case studies and training to support inclusive practices. It covers topics like gender, disability, and cultural diversity to ensure every student benefits from physical activity.

Inclusivity hub

Addressing ableism: our roles as teachers

This article outlines key strategies for teachers to address ableism, particularly in health and physical education, to support every student’s growth and success.

Understanding our roles as teachers in addressing ableism

Funding and support

Local support

Connect with those in your region directly supporting schools through the Regional Sports Trust network.

Local support

Tū Manawa

A Sport NZ fund for play, active recreation, or sport opportunities for tamariki and rangatahi. Available for school-based activities, it is particularly valuable for those who are less active or have limited access to opportunities to be physically active.

Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa

Rural Travel Fund

A fund subsidising travel for rural teams aged between 5-18 years, so they can compete in regular sporting competition.

Rural Travel Fund