Vicci Wells, Head of Sport, Youth Sport Trust
Despite the concerted efforts of schools and increased focus from government, attendance rates remain a pressing issue, with over a fifth of pupils missing more than one in 10 sessions last academic year. This crisis, affecting approximately 22% of students, becomes even more alarming when considering the disproportionately high rates among those on free school meals, reaching over 35%. The persistent absence of learning for around 6,000 children daily demands a collective reflection on how the education sector can address this issue.
One promising avenue being explored by schools and trusts across the country is the role of physical education (PE), sport, and play in supporting the most vulnerable young people in schools. Through our work at the Youth Sport Trust, we witness first-hand the transformative impact of these activities on pupils. Schools are increasingly asking the crucial question: "What does it take for our most vulnerable young people to thrive at school?"
Youth Sport Trust’s Manifesto sets out how we can improve children and young people’s physical, mental and social wellbeing by increasing levels of physical activity. Developed with contributions from children and young people, teachers and school leaders, and representatives from youth, health and wellbeing, physical activity and sport organisations, it puts forward proposals to initiate the systemic change needed to transform lives.
In my work in alternative provision, I have encountered stories of young people who attribute their motivation to attend school to their participation in activities like basketball training or sport fixtures; or the sense of belonging they get when they play or take part in sport with their peers. I genuinely believe and am passionate about the fact that extra-curricular provision can make a significant contribution to how pupils feel in school - and how they feel about school. The Youth Sport Trust's upcoming national conference, titled 'Change the score, change their future,' seeks to address major educational challenges by emphasising the pivotal role of PE, sport, and play.
Keynote speaker Jon Alexander, author of 'Citizens’, will shed light on the vital role of citizenship in education. Debates on topics such as "Is building belonging the key to a successful school?" align with recent research this month by ImpactEd Evaluation, indicating that a sense of belonging is a crucial driver for attendance. The report reveals that pupils in the bottom 20% of attendance scored lower on feeling like a real part of the school, with female pupils expressing less belonging than their male peers.
Transition points equally play a factor and highlight the significance of a sense of community in influencing students' likelihood of attending school. The conference will address the inequities in accessing PE, play, and sport opportunities, including strategies for supporting students with SEND in and outside of the sports hall.
Importantly, this event is a platform for a national network of teachers, school leaders, educators, and practitioners to access professional development, share learning, and seek support collaboratively. It explores the critical role of movement in human flourishing, emphasizing the impact of physical activities on overall well-being.
In the words of Nelson Mandela, "Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire, the power to unite people in a way that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand." Attendees will witness the most current and up-to-date conversations in the education sector, reinforcing the idea that sport can be a powerful catalyst for positive change in the lives of students.
Youth Sport Trust Conference 2024
Wednesday 20 March, Telford International Centre
The Youth Sports Trust (YST) is a strategic partner of CST and members can access a 10% discount on both standard and multibuy ticket prices. Use code YST24CST at checkout to secure your spot now.
For trusts who sign up, Youth Sport Trust can also provide a free workshop, to explore your vision and strategic approach for PE and school sport as a driver for whole trust improvement, and to consider action planning priorities.
The CST Blog welcomes perspectives from a diverse range of guest contributors. The opinions expressed in blogs are the views of the author(s), and should not be read as CST guidance or CST’s position.
