In March 2013 the Government announced that it would provide additional funding to primary schools to support the improvement of provision of PE and sport. The funding, allocated to headteachers in primary schools is ring fenced and can only be spent on PE and sport in primary schools. The headteacher and governors are accountable for the spending of the funding.
The premium must be used to fund additional and sustainable improvements to the provision of PE and sport. It is to benefit primary-aged pupils and to encourage the development of healthy, active lifestyles.
Funding for the 2020/21 academic year
On 5 July 2020, the Education Secretary confirmed that the primary PE & Sport Premium would continue at £320 million for the 2020/21 academic year.
It was also confirmed that funding from the 2019/20 academic year that schools have been unable to use as a result of the coronavirus pandemic can be brought forward to use in the next academic year. You can read the full government guidance document here.
The announcement followed several statements from ministers on the importance of Physical Education and sport to young people’s recovery following school closures and social distancing.
On 29 June, Education Minister Vicky Ford MP said the following in response to a written question on young people’s wellbeing: “There are well established links between physical activity, improved mental wellbeing and educational attainment and we recognise the importance that children continue to remain fit and active, wherever possible, and have the 60 minutes of daily physical activity recommended by the Chief Medical Officers. We are encouraging schools to prioritise physical activity as they welcome more children back to school.” Read the full answer.
Putting PE, sport and physical activity at the heart of childrenâs recovery from the coronavirus crisis
Following the announcement of the continued government investment into primary PE and sport for 2020/21, this webinar puts into perspective the opportunity this presents in supporting schools to recover from the coronavirus crisis. Framed around the needs of your staff and pupils.
Key to the successful utilisation of the funding is the consideration of sustainable, whole school approaches where everyone plays a contributing role.
The continued commitment to fund the primary PE and sport premium from the Government is great news schools, teachers and pupils the length and breadth of the country. Engagement in PA and the nurturing of health and wellbeing has never been so important as we navigate life with and beyond Covid-19.
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