The DfE has confirmed that the Primary PE and Sport Premium will continue at the rate of £320 million for 2020-2021.
For the third year running the Department for Education has maintained the amount schools are funded specifically for PE and sport. However, perhaps the most relevant part of the announcement was that the DfE has given permission for any used funding from 2019-20 can be carried forward as a result of the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdown, giving school leaders an opportunity to develop or add to their existing provision, or to make improvements that will benefit pupils joining the school in future years.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson, said:
“During these challenging times, it has become clearer to me than ever the importance of keeping active and how it benefits not just our physical health but also our ability to pay attention, our mood and our mental health too. Every family will have had a different experience of the pandemic, and I know that many children will have missed time spent outdoors with their friends – that’s why it’s so important that ahead of a full return to school in September, schools get the certainty they need to prepare their PE and sports activities for next year.”
The announcement has been warmly received amongst the primary school sector, during this time of change and uncertainty. LSC recently joined the Association for Physical Education’s Associate scheme and afPE were amongst those commenting positively.
Sue Wilkinson MBE, CEO of Association for Physical Education said:
“afPE is delighted that the Department for Education has announced the continued funding of the Primary PE and Sport Premium, for the next academic year. The Government’s commitment since 2013 has demonstrated the importance of physical education and school sport and in light of current circumstances further investment is crucial. This acknowledgement is testament to its importance in ensuring the best outcomes for all children and young people are achieved. We know this investment will have a significant impact on teachers’ confidence and competence.
The PE and Sport Premium is designed to help children get an active start in life, supporting primary schools to improve the quality of their PE and sport provision so that pupils experience the benefits of regular exercise – from becoming healthier both mentally and physically to improved behaviour and better academic achievement.
“LSC is delighted that the DfE has confirmed Primary PE and Sport Premium will continue. It will allow head teachers, governors and school sports coordinators to plan out their future physical education and sport provision into next year without uncertainty.” said Craig Brennan, CEO. He also commented, “Over the past few years, LSC has helped to upskill and develop school staff and the continuation of funding means that many more pupils will experience high quality PE, school sport and physical activity (PESSPA). The funding helps to support our mission of getting more children to do more sport and become more active.”
