High-quality PE, school sport, and physical activity (PESSPA) offer powerful benefits, enhancing pupils’ physical health, mental wellbeing, social development, and contributing to broader whole-school outcomes. However, despite these benefits, only 47% of young people currently meet the Chief Medical Officer’s recommendation of 60 active minutes per day.

Crucially, research shows that pupils from underserved communities face greater barriers to participation, with fewer opportunities and less access to regular physical activity widening inequalities in PESSPA.

So how can schools identify and address these gaps?

The Inclusive Health Check is a free, online self-assessment tool embedded within the School Games programme, funded by Sport England, Department of Health and Social Care and Department of Culture, Media and Sport, and endorsed by Department for Education. It helps schools reflect on whether their school sport and physical activity provision truly inclusive for pupils from underserved communities.

By completing the inclusive health check at least annually, schools can track improvements in inclusive practice and generate measurable evidence to support internal development and external reporting. Sections can be revisited and updated at any time, providing flexibility for ongoing review. To complete the inclusive health check, schools are asked a series of questions to assess their inclusive practice which have been co-created with expertise organisations striving for equality including Women in Sport, Sporting Equals and Activity Alliance. After rating their confidence in supporting specific groups, schools receive tailored resource suggestions to create an action plan to guide next steps. Completion of the inclusive health check is also a mandatory part of the School Games Mark application contributing to achieving a School Games Mark award.

Impact of the Inclusive Health Check

Over the last academic year 8,356 schools completed the inclusive health check, here are some examples of how schools are using it to enhance inclusion:

Merseyside – Increasing Inclusion for SEND Pupils
Working closely with the SENDCo, staff embedded inclusive PE practices, supported by adaptive teaching, creative resources, and external professionals. Daily PE, active lunchtimes, and initiatives like Feel Good Fridays and sensory circuits have boosted engagement and participation, especially in activities like girls’ football.

Berkshire – Strengthening Inclusion Through Collaboration
Collaboration with the SENCo and Assistant Head led to improved understanding and provision. Sport in Mind was invited to Sports Week to promote the message that sport is for everyone, reinforcing inclusion and mental wellbeing.

West Midlands – Supporting Neurodiverse Learners
After identifying sensory barriers, the school introduced a quiet space for breaks and trained staff to use tools like visual timetables, noise-reducing headphones, and adapted equipment. This has led to reduced anxiety and higher participation in PE.

Birmingham – Expanding Access to Clubs
Active breakfast and after-school clubs have become more inclusive, with targeted access for pupil premium students to increase active minutes outside of PE.

Peterborough – Faith & Cultural Awareness
Staff training across the trust helped address barriers related to faith, fasting, and changing arrangements by educating staff and adapting activities. Engagement and consultation with pupils ensured cultural needs were understood and respected.

South Yorkshire – Representation Through Role Models
As part of a commitment to inclusivity and representation, one school embedded diverse role models including Pelé, Muhammad Ali, and prominent disability athletes into every PE unit. These figures reflect the backgrounds and abilities of their school community, helping pupils see themselves represented in sport. This approach has led to more meaningful learning experiences, a stronger sense of belonging, and increased participation across all groups.

Cambridge – Peer Support & Play Ambassadors
Following their inclusive health check, one school introduced a peer support programme, training pupils to assist classmates with additional needs. As part of this, Play Ambassadors now lead inclusive play at break times, encouraging collaboration and empathy. This initiative has not only improved social interaction but also fostered a positive, inclusive school culture, where every child feels supported and valued.

Leicestershire – Listening to Pupil Voice
A structured pupil focus group of SEND students and support staff informed changes such as smaller groups, clearer instructions, and more accessible Sports Day activities. Staff have reported better behaviour for learning and increased engagement.

Get Started

• Learn more about the Inclusive Health Check and start your application here.
• For support, contact the Youth Sport Trust Inclusion Team at [email protected].