£300,000 for SEND-focused PE and sport programme

More than 240,000 pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are set to benefit from a national programme to improve access to PE and school sports, which has been backed by £300,000 for the first year.

This has been possible thanks to the Inclusion 2028 programme which is to collaborate with a network of 50 Youth Sport Trust lead schools to provide the training teachers need to create and deliver lessons that meet the diverse needs of all pupils.

The programme therefore encourages different teaching methods to engage all learners, which will also improve attendance and foster a school environment where all children have the potential to succeed. 

1,500 pupils will benefit from leadership opportunities through developing activities for their classmates, with schools across the country set to host events inspired by the Paralympic Games and Commonwealth Games. 

Additionally, the programme will set up 600 new extracurricular clubs offering pupils with SEND the opportunity to try a range of sports, from archery to boccia.

This programme is expected to boost childrens’ muscle and motor skills, as well as a sense of achievement, confidence, social connection, and improved mental.

Expected to work with over 8,000 schools, the programme is set to involve more than 240,000 pupils and 10,000 school leaders in England over three years.

School Standards Minister, Catherine McKinnell said: "Sport has the unique power to break down barriers, build confidence and foster a sense of belonging.

"Inclusion 2028 will ensure young people experience the benefits of sport and physical activity, from improved mental wellbeing and teamwork skills to greater resilience.

"By building a generation of teachers with the skills and confidence to deliver high-quality PE and school sport for all pupils, we can ensure that every child gets their chance to shine."