Bradford based charity Action For Sport has reported an overwhelmingly positive response to its School Partnership Programme after attending the Leeds Beckett Schools Conference, where PE teachers and school representatives from across the Leeds area gathered to explore new opportunities to support pupils.
The conference provided Action For Sport with the opportunity to introduce schools to its unique partnership model, designed to help improve access to sport and physical activity while supporting schools and students facing increasing financial and resource pressures.
One of the most common reactions from delegates was, “Where’s the catch?” However, as conversations developed, teachers quickly realised there wasn’t one, just a genuine commitment from the charity to work alongside schools to make a meaningful and lasting impact on pupils’ lives.
Many schools recognised the potential financial benefits of the programme, with several commenting that the partnership could save them significant amounts of money while providing valuable support and resources for students.
Teachers were also reassured by the experience of Action For Sport’s co-founders, whose backgrounds in education have given them firsthand insight into the challenges schools, teachers and young people face every day.
The charity also shared encouraging evidence from schools already participating in the programme. Data suggests that a significant number of pupils regularly absent on PE days were eligible for Pupil Premium funding. By introducing targeted support and investing resources where they were needed most, schools working with Action For Sport have seen improvements in attendance and greater engagement in physical education.
Action For Sport believes these findings demonstrate the positive role that accessible sporting opportunities can play in improving school attendance, confidence and participation.
Co-founder Clive Michallet said:
“It was fantastic to speak with so many passionate PE teachers who immediately understood what we’re trying to achieve. Many asked, ‘Where’s the catch?’ and we were delighted to tell them there isn’t one. Our School Partnership Programme is about working with schools, not selling to them. We know the challenges schools face because we’ve worked in them ourselves. Every child deserves the opportunity to enjoy sport and benefit from everything it can offer, regardless of their background or circumstances. Seeing evidence that our work is helping improve attendance and engagement in PE is incredibly rewarding, and we’re excited to build even more partnerships that make a real difference.”
Following the success of the conference, Action For Sport looks forward to developing new partnerships with schools across the region and continuing its mission to ensure every child has the opportunity to benefit from sport, regardless of their circumstances.
Co-founder Clive Michallat at Leeds Beckett Schools Conference
