Active Schools
The aim of the Active Schools programme is to offer school-aged children the motivation and opportunities to adopt active, healthy lifestyles – both now and into adulthood. These opportunities are available before, during and after school, as well as in the wider community.
More physical activity is introduced into young people’s daily lives through active travel, play and dance, all in the context of a health promoting school – there are clear links between the Active Schools programme and health promoting schools, with both sharing the same general ethos. The Active Schools programme is facilitated by Sportscotland.
Characteristics of the Active School
An Active School sends out a strong message on physical activity and sport to a wide audience. In seeking to develop physical activity as part of becoming a health promoting school, the school should:
- provide quality, safe and fun physical activity opportunities, in both the formal and informal curriculum
- provide adequate resources and funding for physical activity
- actively promote positive attitudes towards participation in physical activity with pupils, staff and families
- ensure that physical activity complements school policy on inclusion and equal opportunities
- ensure that physical activity is included in the school development plan
- encourage and support pupils to reach their full potential within physical activity, including sport and physical education (PE)
- create strong partnerships with external agencies and personnel to develop quality physical activity opportunities.
Family involvement
Evidence suggests that parental influence has a significant impact on a young person’s activity levels. So it’s up to you to provide a role model for your child and support Active Schools by setting a good example. Help your child to develop a positive attitude towards all physical activity – such as games and sport, walking to school, gardening or helping with the housework. Look for opportunities to be active together, whether it be walking to school or cycling at the weekends.
Children need encouragement as they consider getting involved in some of the activities on offer; without your support, they may well lack confidence or feel they are not good enough to take part. Why not volunteer to help out at some of the Active Schools activities? Many different roles and skills are needed, and your school may be looking for drivers, administrators, coaches and leaders, as well as supporters.
Useful link
Active Schools page of the sportscotland website
Background information about the initiative and how it is being implemented.
