The Independent Schools Association (ISA) has said it hopes school sports departments will continue to place emphasis on sport and physical activity in the curriculum, despite difficult circumstances as a result of Covid-19.
Whilst recognising that there will be a “period of adjustment” in the new term, the ISA highlighted the “endless benefits” of sport for children.
The association, which provides sporting competitions for its member schools, had to cancel almost all of its events from March until the October half-term this year.
The ISA said: “One thing that we particularly hope will be maintained this year is the emphasis on sport and physical activity in the curriculum. As we all know, sport provides endless benefits for children; and as much as we are missing the buzz and enjoyment of providing competition, the safety of our schools and pupils is paramount.
“This pandemic has highlighted how indomitable schools are. It’s been inspirational to follow the new, innovative teaching practices that they have provided to their pupils over lockdown, such as stay at home sports days and virtual challenges.”
It’s been inspirational to follow the new, innovative teaching practices that they have provided to their pupils over lockdown, such as stay at home sports days and virtual challenges – Independent Schools Association
Over 3,500 schools, including ISA schools, took part in the National School Sport Week at Home through Youth Sport Trust, which the ISA said played an essential role in keeping children and families active during the lockdown period.
The initiative, which took place from 20-26 June, gave schools, families, communities and sports clubs the opportunity to take part in virtual sporting challenges.
“The sports team here at ISA will be working closely with other organisations to build on the success of virtual competitions and initiatives. ISA will endeavour to keep schools engaged, providing both value and benefit within the community through various forms of national competition,” said the ISA.
“Once schools can safely return to competitive sport, we look forward to welcoming everyone back to our high profile events at leading venues in the not too distant future.”
