Youth Sport Trust welcomes a national programme to deliver inclusive sport in schools.

The Government has announced the launch of Inclusion 2028, a programme to improve access to PE and school sports for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.

The Government has today announced the launch of Inclusion 2028, a programme to improve access to PE and school sports for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.

The programme will work with a network of 50 lead schools to provide training to teachers, helping the creation and delivery of inclusive lessons to meet the diverse needs of all pupils, including those with physical, sensory, cognitive, communication or social and emotional needs.

Inclusion 2028 will be delivered by a consortium led by the Youth Sport Trust, alongside partners ParalympicsGB, Swim England, Activity Alliance and nasen, and supported by the Association for PE and Sport for Confidence.

It aims to provide leadership opportunities for 1,500 pupils, create 600 new extra-curricular inclusive clubs, and support more than 240,000 pupils across the three years.

Speaking after the announcement, Youth Sport Trust CEO Ali Oliver MBE, said:

“We are pleased the Department for Education is continuing to support the transformation of PE and school sports and access to daily physical activity for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

“The Youth Sport Trust believes these opportunities play a fundamental role in the education and enrichment provided by schools, and the experience offers an invaluable opportunity for young people to express themselves, enjoy movement, and develop essential life skills.

“Too many children, particularly those with additional needs, are either missing out or still face barriers to inclusion and there is so much more to do to create the capacity capability and opportunity in the system for every child.

“We feel incredibly proud to continue leading the delivery of this important programme working alongside a distinguished collaboration of partners all of which are equally committed to this mission. Together through our work with schools, teachers and young people, we know inclusive practice can give every child equal access, increase participation, and as a result enjoy the life-changing benefits of play and sport.”

Schools Standards Minister Catherine McKinnell said:

“Sport has the unique power to break down barriers, build confidence and foster a sense of belonging.

“Inclusion 2028 will ensure all young people experience the benefits of sport and physical activity, from improved mental wellbeing and teamwork skills to greater resilience and stronger school engagement.

“By building a generation of teachers with the skills and confidence to deliver high-quality, inclusive PE and school sport, we can ensure no child is left on the sidelines.”

Eden Hays, winner of the Inspirational Inclusive Leader Award at the Youth Sport Trust’s Young Changemaker Awards 2023, said:

“Sport is important for everyone’s mental health and wellbeing, but especially for children with disabilities, where life is that bit harder. Being active has helped keep me both physically and mentally strong and ensured opportunities both in and out of school. Opportunities not just in competing, but both leading and educating too. Sport can be adapted for everyone and should be enjoyed by all.”