Schools involved in the PESS investigation have used PE and school sport to increase pupils’ involvement in healthy, active lifestyles by helping them to:

• develop their knowledge and understanding of how physical activity promotes and enhances personal and social health, fitness and well-being
• understand what constitutes a balanced lifestyle, including physical activity
• get involved in physical activity as part of a balanced lifestyle.

Around one-third of the schools involved in the investigation focused strongly on developing healthy, active lifestyles among their pupils and all saw improvements in pupils’ patterns of physical activity and diet. Several achieved the Healthy Schools standard, reinforcing the importance of taking a whole-school approach. All staff, helpers and pupils need to know and understand the school’s expectations for pupils’ involvement in healthy, active lifestyles.

To read about how different schools have tackled the issue of increasing pupils’ involvement in healthy, active lifestyles, download ‘How are schools using PESS to increase pupils’ involvement in healthy, active lifestyles?’ on the right.

Read more guidance on how your school can increase pupils’ involvement in healthy, active lifestyles.