Exeter Schools' Health Education Unit: "Fit to Succeed"
Promoting Physical Activity and Academic Achievement

Partners involved in the project

The project was planned and implemented by the following partners:

• D C Leisure Management Ltd
• Exeter Academic Council, Exeter City Council
• Devon County Council Curriculum Services,
• Schools Health and Education Unit
• and teachers and children of Exeter

Objectives

Promote healthy physical activity and investigate any links between increased participation and academic achievement across Exeter Schools;

inform and influence policy decisions on curriculum content and youth sport development priorities/programmes;

increase children's interest in P.E. at School and improve their motivation to adopt a healthier lifestyle away from School;

adopt a consultative and collaborative approach, linking together the overlapping objectives of community health, education and leisure organisations locally.

Background

Fit to Succeed began as a pilot programme in 7 schools with surveys of 1400 pupils aged 8-12 in Years 5-7, which identified present participation levels and pinpointed perceived opportunities / obstacles.

Method

Participating pupils were given five free activity sessions (and completed a personal fitness record card) at sports / leisure centres and clubs of their choice;

Each School Class Teacher delivered the content of a curriculum pack about the benefits of regular exercise;

Outcomes (at 6 and 12 month intervals) were compared against Exeter Health Education Unit's "Health Related Behaviour Questionnaire (completed by 37,500 pupils);

Links were found between exercise levels and academic performance - together with parental participation and its impact on children's exercise habits.

Project Outcomes

Results of 5,000 "Fit to Succeed" survey scripts were analysed (and assessed against 4 control schools that were not given access to the activities available at sports / leisure centres and clubs;

Scale and scope of project subsequently extended to all state middle and high schools in Exeter, involving over 10,000 pupils aged 8-15;

Successful application made to the Glaxo / Barnardo's "Right Fit' Fund;

Consequent appointment of full-time Project Co-ordinator to maintain momentum and maximise effectiveness of project.