Well Schools

Discover Well Schools

School Support

Browse Resources

News & Insight

Read our insight

Why this work matters

Children and young people face growing pressures that affect their wellbeing, health and engagement in school life. Schools play a vital role in helping young people build confidence, resilience and positive relationships with movement.

The challenge

20.3%

of children aged 8 to 16 in England have a probable mental health disorder in 2023

22.1%

of year six and 9.6% of reception children in England are obese with rates over twice as high in the most deprived areas

84%

of parents believe that children are spending too much time online and not enough time with each other in person

Explore our research

Knowledge Bank

Our Response

Youth Sport Trust works with schools and young people across the UK to create positive movement experiences and stronger wellbeing cultures. These stories show what that looks like in practice. The Young Changemaker Awards celebrate young people who are using sport and play to inspire others, build confidence and create positive change in their schools and communities.

Emily & Regan

Anna & Ethan

Mason & Gift

Emily – Young Health Champion

After developing complex health conditions that led her to become a full-time wheelchair user, Emily embraced inclusive PE and sport at school. Through determination and leadership she now champions accessible physical activity and inspires others to overcome barriers.

Find out more about Inclusion 2028

Regan – Greatest Turnaround Through Sport

Through the Set for Success programme, Regan overcame anxiety and a pronounced stammer to build confidence and leadership through sport. His powerful speech “My Voice is Not Your Voice” demonstrated how physical activity can transform identity and self-belief.

Find out more about Set for Success

Anna – Inspirational Female Leader

Through the Girls Active programme, Anna has championed inclusion by creating safe, supportive opportunities for girls to be active. Balancing caring responsibilities with school and sport, she leads with empathy, inspires younger pupils, and empowers girls to build confidence through physical activity.

Find out more about Girls Active

Ethan - Young Activist

Through Young Ambassadors Cymru, Ethan has used sport to drive positive change in his community. From officiating and mentoring in basketball to leading charity events, his commitment to inclusion, wellbeing and youth leadership has made him a powerful role model for others.

Find out more about Young Ambassadors Wales

Mason - Inspirational Inclusive Young Leader

Through the Inclusive Leadership Camp, Mason has used his lived experience as a kidney transplant recipient to inspire others to overcome barriers through sport. As a record-breaking para swimmer and mentor, he champions inclusion, resilience and the belief that anything is possible.

Gift - International Young Leader

Through the Beckwith International Leadership Development programme, Gift transformed opportunity into lasting change. Using the skills she developed to launch a successful business, she now supports her family and inspires others through her resilience, ambition and commitment to creating a better future.