As the largest volunteer workforce in the country, governors have an amazing opportunity to create positive change in schools that will impact the futures of young people and school staff.

Just like school governors, PE, physical activity and sport play a huge role in achieving the very best outcomes for children and young people.

COVID-19 has had a detrimental effect on young people’s physical and mental health and wellbeing. There is also evidence that increased physical activity is linked to enhanced mental health, improved cognitive function, aspects of self-esteem, and reduced depressive symptoms in young people.

Physical activity and play are needed now more than ever to help children recover from the impact of months of restrictions. Have a look at some fantastic practical examples of how schools are ensuring a positive experience for young people in PE and school sport while adhering to government guidance and COVID-19 restrictions.

Now, more than ever, it is essential that everybody in school is well. The 2020 Teacher Wellbeing Index revealed some sobering statistics, highlighting that stress remains commonplace among staff in UK schools. We’d love you as a governor to encourage your school to take the pledge to become a Well School, where pupil and staff wellbeing is placed at the very heart of education. Find out more on the Well Schools platform.

We have developed a toolkit in collaboration with governors, trustees and sector bodies, for school governors to identify the importance of how high-quality PE, school sport and physical activity can promote and improve the health, wellbeing and wider educational outcomes of pupils in schools. For more information about content and to purchase, please click here. 

YST Membership will give you the practical tools to demonstrate how PE and school sport can positively affect whole school outcomes. Find out more about our membership packages here.