29/09/18

Following on from the announcement by Education Secretary, Damian Hinds that he will launch an action plan to boost participation competitive school sports, the Association for Physical Education has responded.

Sue Wilkinson MBE, afPE’s CEO said:

“The Association for Physical Education is always pleased to hear that Government departments work together to support strategies that will contribute to increasing activity levels for all children and young people.”

 

“The Physical Education National Curriculum has a strong purpose which includes building character and working to improve self esteem throughout the school years and the continued investment from Government through the Primary PE and Sport Premium is valued by the sector.”

 

“afPE believe that it is the power of physical education (PE) and putting PE at the heart of school life that will change lives. We are not adverse to competition but elite competition is aimed at the top 10% of our population, to achieve the very best in sport across the nations. What we would like to see are increased opportunities for the remaining 90% of the community and particularly children and young people, being the wind beneath the wings of the elite and enjoying different types of competition.”

 

“This could be against the self, the clock and each other. This would build resilience; develop character building skills and support children and young people in developing other life skills such as those that will enhance employment opportunities and/or further study options.”

 

“We know that you often do not have a choice about how you lose, but you do have a choice about how you come back and prepare to win again.”

 

“We welcome this new initiative and look forward to working together to achieve the best physical and emotional well being as well as developing the wider life skills for all children and young people.”

 

“We look forward to supporting the Secretary of State in his commitment to increase opportunities for all.”