A whole-school approach to primary school physical activity: The PESSPA toolkit

Oral Presentation C9.8

Authors

  • Gareth Jones Sheffield Hallam University
  • Stephen Betts Learn Sheffield
  • Adam Fuller Archers School Sport Partnership
  • Emma Banks Sheffield City Council
  • Sarah Williams Sheffield Hallam University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.700

Keywords:

Physical Activity, Children and Young People, Whole-School Approach, Physical Education, School Sport

Abstract

Background: The link between physical activity (PA) and cognitive function, behaviour, academic achievement and wellbeing in children is strong. Data, however, suggests that children and young people do not meet PA guidelines. Purpose: To gain a school’s perspective on the implications and utility of a whole-school approach to physical activity in a primary school setting. Methods: The PESSPA (Physical Education, School Sport, Physical Activity) toolkit was designed by primary school professionals and researchers to demonstrate the importance and best practice for PESSPA. A qualitative design (interviews) was utilised with primary school staff to understand the school PA culture and initial impressions of a whole-scool approach to PA, PESSPA toolkit. Data were analysed thematically. Participants (N = 13) were primary school PE leads (n = 10) and senior leadership team members (n = 3). Interviews utilised face-to-face and telephone methods, followed a semi-structured interview schedule, and averaged 41.76minutes in length. Results: Analysis revealed that schools saw the importance of an active school, highlighted both facilitators and barriers to supporting child PA, and evaluated the PESSPA toolkit positively. Overarching themes and implications of a whole-school approach to PA will be discussed. Conclusions: The PESSPA toolkit was well received by primary school staff, highlighting the utility of a whole-school approach to support a positive PA structure at school. The next stage of the project includes investigation of the long-term tool impact on primary school PESSPA provision. Funding: Local funding: National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine. 

Published

2021-09-30

How to Cite

Jones, G., Betts, S., Fuller, A., Banks, E., & Williams, S. (2021). A whole-school approach to primary school physical activity: The PESSPA toolkit: Oral Presentation C9.8. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.700