If your child is athletic, then playing fields and state-of-the-art sports facilities are probably high up on your list when you’re considering a school. But even if your child has other interests, a good sports provision could be more important than you think. Encouraging sport in schools isn’t just about creating future athletes; it is about shaping healthier, happier pupils who are better equipped to face all of life’s challenges. Here’s five reasons why sport is a vital part of the curriculum and why you should consider a school that prioritises physical activity for your child.
The benefits of sport in schools for physical and mental health, and academic results…
1. The impact on physical health
With children spending increasing amounts of time in front of screens, childhood obesity is on the rise. According to NHS guidelines, children aged 5 to 18 should engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Participation in sport promotes physical health, helping children to develop strong muscles and bones, improve cardiovascular health, and boost their overall fitness levels. If children get used to moving their body, it can also lead to healthy habits for life.
Schools that offer a wide variety of sports give children more opportunities to find a physical activity they enjoy. Loretto school has an 85 acre leafy campus on the outskirts of Edinburgh. Known for its exceptional sport, golf and outdoor pursuits facilities, the school places great emphasis on physical education.
Loretto’s Director of Sport, Jason White, former Scotland Rugby Captain & British Lion says “We champion a culture of participation, encouraging all students to engage in physical activities that promote health and wellbeing. Our extensive extra-curricular programme offers a variety of sports clubs and initiatives aimed at fostering a love for physical fitness, regardless of skill level. From sessions focussed on fun and enjoyment to competitive fixtures, we strive to create an inclusive atmosphere where every student can find their place.”
2. Mental wellbeing benefits
The well-documented link between physical activity and mental health is particularly important for school-aged children. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, which boost mood and help to reduce stress. Sport also provides an important outlet for the pressures of schoolwork and social dynamics, helping children to regulate their emotions, manage anxiety, and build resilience.
Team sports also foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie, helping children to make friends and alleviate feelings of loneliness. Non-competitive physical activities, such as yoga or dance, promote mindfulness and relaxation. All types of physical activity can help contribute to a balanced and positive mindset.
3. Physical activity and academic achievement
If you think that sports are just a distraction from the classroom, then you might be surprised to learn that physical activity has a positive impact on academic performance. Sport in schools has been linked to improved concentration, memory, and cognitive function, all of which are vital for effective learning.
A study by Sport England found that physically active pupils were not only healthier but also performed better academically and had improved attendance rates.
In 2024, a remarkable 33% of pupils’ A Level results at Loretto were within the A*-A grade boundary. Loretto’s Head, Mr. Pete Richardson says “Loretto is more than a school; it is a community where every child is known and nurtured, Our motto ‘Spartam nactus es hanc exorna’ (you were born with talents: develop them) still resonates today as whether it be in the classroom, on the pitch or in the theatre. We believe in individuality and are committed to helping young people identify and develop their talents. Our ethos – mind, body, spirit – remains as true today as it did 200 years ago when Loretto was founded. This belief in the holistic development of the individual remains the bedrock of our school.”
4. Building social skills and teamwork
Team sports such as football, netball, and rugby help children to build valuable teamwork skills. Children have to work together towards shared goals, communicate effectively, and learn to respect and support each other.
Individual sports such as golf or athletics help children to build discipline, resilience, and the ability to handle success and failure. All of these skills are important for life after school, and stand young people in good stead for further education, the workplace, and beyond.
Most importantly though, sport offers a sense of belonging. Teams and clubs often have a supportive community, and being part of this helps to boost children’s self-confidence.
5. Sports and inclusivity
Sport brings people together, making it a powerful tool for promoting inclusivity within schools. Out on the pitch, court, or playing field, differences in background, gender, ability, or experience are not as important as shared goals and teamwork.
By providing ample opportunities for participation in sports, schools can teach young people the value of diversity. Sports also help to challenge and break down stereotypes, creating a positive environment where everyone feels valued.
Community is at the heart of Loretto and pupils at the school forge lifelong friendships. These connections are cemented through the school’s extensive extracurricular activity programme.
Loretto’s Senior Deputy Head Mrs Rachael Delaney, comments “There is a sense of oneness yet the personalised approach and inclusive ethos are seen in all aspects of school, but in particular the co-curricular programme that runs after lessons. With over 70 extra-curricular activities including everything from origami to engineering, there is something to excite and support everyone. Most pupils choose to stay after lessons finish and take part in two activities before school supper (tea).”
Final thoughts
The benefits of encouraging sport in schools goes way beyond success on the playing field. By encouraging a love of physical activity, schools can help children to develop the skills and habits that they need to become successful and happy for the rest of their lives.
This is a sponsored post created in collaboration with Loretto School, an independent boarding and day school in Edinburgh for boys and girls aged 3 to 18.
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